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lorirwritesfanfic · 2 years

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Clingy

Author’s note: Evelyn Bennington is a creation of this author. The other characters are owned by Pixelberry Studios. Book: Open Heart Pairing: Rafael Aveiro x F!MC (Evelyn) Rating: E Word count: 1399 Reading time: ~6min Summary: Evelyn went on a shopping spree and Rafael can't hardly wait for her to come home. Based on the prompts: @choicesmonthlychallengee Picktober: Kinktober - Leather/Lace

Raindrops drum on the glass windows as Rafael checks his phone one more time. She's nearly two hours late. Though she said she'd probably arrive earlier at home, once Evelyn got Sienna's text mentioning sales at Bloomingdale's, he knew he'd have dinner by himself. Which is fine. Evelyn is currently on a diet, so he could have the greasy cheeseburger with fries and soda he has been craving for weeks. But it's so strange to stay alone at home. Didn't she say she would just take a look? Why is she taking so long?

He idly flips between TV channels eating the last of his fries, looking for any kind of distraction. He shouldn't worry so much. Their neighborhood is quite calm and Evelyn can handle herself just fine. Yet, deep down he knows this isn't about protectiveness. It's about missing her.

His eyes find his phone again, but he shakes his head and looks back at the TV. Evelyn's job is so demanding and, now that she moved in with him, she has spent so little time with her friends. It doesn't see right to spoil her rare moment of fun with her friends.

Almost half an hour passed when the door finally opens.

"Hi!" Evelyn walks in grinning from ear to ear carrying six large bags.

"Hi," he answers, glancing at the bags. "I see you didn't just look around."

"I swear I'd just tag along with Sienna and Jackie. But you're not going to believe the stuff I got here." She then puts the bags on the floor and opens one of them to fish out an orange tote bag. "Look at this! Isn't it pretty?"

"I like the color. I assume you're going to wear it to go out?"

"Yes! I got so much stuff to wear when we travel to Brazil."

His brows go up in surprise. "Did you?"

"What? You're not the only one daydreaming about this trip."

He smiles softly. "I'm glad you've been thinking about it too, meu amor. But you also said you'd save money for the trip."

"And I am! I only bought things that I'm going to wear on the trip and some essential items. By the way, I got something for you."

Rafael looks down at the bags then at her. "For me?"

Evelyn produces a leather jacket out of one of the bags. "You said you wanted a new jacket."

"You didn't have to do that…"

"I know. But I wanted to. I was wandering between the clothing racks searching for stuff that would look good on you and I thought you'd like it. It's comfy, it'll keep you warm and it's stylish," she adds.

He takes the jacket and nods. It does look nice.

"Go try it on."

"Now?"

"Yeah now!" She grins and kisses his cheek. "Go check in the bedroom. I want to see how it looks on you."

With that, Rafael goes to their room and stares at himself in the mirror while he puts on the jacket. It fits him like a glove and it feels nicer than he expected.

He is suddenly startled by Evelyn's arms wrapping around his frame as she hugs him from behind.

"You look so dapper, amor," she purrs.

"Thanks…" He smiles coyly.

"Do you like it?"

"I do." He turns around to gaze at her. "It's a beautiful jacket, amor. Thank you."

"No problem," she replies and steps back. "I also bought something else I thought you might like."

His jaw drops as Evelyn takes off her coat, revealing a set of emerald green lace underwire bra and panties.

"What do you think?"

"You look stunning, Eve. Though I have to say…" He takes a few steps closer to her. "If you've been walking around Boston wearing just a coat and tiny underwear since you left the store, you must be cold."

"So cold…" Evelyn nods, pouting a little.

"We have to find a way to get you warm," Rafael whispers, pulling her flush against him.

Making quick work with his clothes, they quickly move to the bed. On top of her, Rafael pulls the sheer fabric just enough to free her breasts and proceeds to suck one of her nipples while teasing the other with his hand.

As Evelyn moans, Rafael climbs down slowly and kisses her lower belly. He smiles at the sight of her panties drenched from her juices and pushes them aside to sink two fingers inside her while his thumb works on her clit.

His eyes sweep over her body and he smiles. With parted lips, she moans in delight as her sweat runs down her belly, cheeks flush, hips bucking to meet the thrust of his fingers. "You're exquisite, meu amor. I could watch you like this for hours."

"But I want more…" She begs.

"So do I…" He leans in to whisper. "But it'd be a shame not to fully appreciate how beautiful you look in this new underwear of yours."

She smiles, nibbling her bottom lip. "So you like it."

"Like is an understatement. I love it," he says as his fingers work faster.

"Raf, I want you…" Evelyn groans.

He then removes his fingers from her and pulls her panties down. "We won't need these anymore."

"But you said you love them!" She fakes pouts slightly.

"Oh, I do. I'll steal them whenever you leave me here all alone, missing you like crazy. But right now they're getting in my way."

She giggles.

Closing her legs, Rafael holds them close to his chest and slowly plunges into her. Both of them gasp. Once again, he thinks to himself he could spend hours like this, just savoring her warmth around him. But the best is yet to come.

He moves in and out, picking up speed as Evelyn meows louder. Taking his time, he gazes at her once again. Nipples hard, hands clenching the sheets, ragged breath, walls tightening around him. She's so ready. And he could barely wait to finish inside her.

"Faster…" She pleads.

He grins then hammers into her.

Her brows knit together as her body is about to climax. "Raf, I can't hold it…"

"It's okay. Let it go, meu amor…"

Her toes curl as she cries out in ecstasy. Yet he doesn't stop.

"One more?"

"Yes, please." Evelyn smirks.

Still holding her legs, he opens them and lies on her, pressing her lower limbs against her breasts as he sinks deeper.

She gasps as he rams into her. With their face at last so close, their lips meet in hungry kisses, fueled by their need for each other. It doesn't take long for her to find release again, followed by his grunts as he spills his seeds into her.

Once he eases himself out, he lays down beside her and brushes a few locks of hair away from her face. "Are you okay?"

"Am I okay?" She smiles trying to catch her breath. "I'm on cloud nine, babe!"

He chuckles.

"Is there a special reason for these new moves? Besides the lingerie, of course."

"No… I just missed you while you were gone."

"You could've called me."

"I could. But I didn't want to ruin your time with the girls. You haven't gone out much lately. Especially by yourself. You deserve to have fun with your friends."

"Aw… You're so sweet." Evelyn crawls on top of him and gives him a peck. "But I wouldn't have minded if you texted me saying you miss me."

"Would it be too clingy?"

"Not for me. But just in case it felt clingy to you, you could have mentioned everything you planned to do to me when I got home."

"Very well." He grins and kisses the tip of her nose. "Get ready for some serious sexting next time."

Evelyn giggles. "Can't wait."

#choices fanfic #open heart fanfic #rafael aveiro #rafael x f!MC #choicesmonthlychallenge #Kinktober #n*fw #lorirwritesfanfic #lorircreates

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choicesficwriterscreations · 4 months

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Moving On (Series) - @rafasgirl23415

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Rafael Aveiro x F!MC

Chapter 43 - Why Won’t She Leave Us Alone? Part Two

#choices fanfic #open heart #rafael aveiro #rafael aveiro x f!mc #cfwc fics of the week

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alj4890 · 2 months

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Comfort

(Ethan Ramsey x F!MC) in a Choices Open Heart One Shot

As requested by

@hopelessromantic1352 with the prompt "You can't keep doing this."

A/N Here you go my sweet friend. Thank you for sending these requests to me to help with inspiration. I know you specifically wanted this one with both Ethan and Chris, so I'm going back to book 1 for you so that Tobias won't steal her away 😉

I was also inspired by the Dr. Who gifs below for this one. For those who don't know, Karen Gillian is my FC for Chris Valentine. Don't worry, I'm not making Matt Smith my FC for Ethan 😂 This interaction though reminded me of something Ethan and Chris would have done and it fit my idea for the above prompt.

Masterlist

It was too much. All of it was more than Chris could take. Tears blurred her vision as she finally had a chance to react to the mayhem she'd just finished being a part of.

Ripping off the surgical scrubs covered in Rafael's blood, she dashed blindly down the corridor. Her breaths hitched as sobs threatened to spill out. All she could think of was running away from the absolute hell of the subway accident. She needed to get as far as she could before losing her strained hold on her emotions.

Ignoring the alarm of the exhausted nurses and doctors, she ran past them without saying a word.

She stumbled out of one of the side doors of the hospital and barreled into a familiar solid form.

Ethan grunted on impact. He grasped her arms once he recognized her.

"Chris?" He leaned down closer to see her more clearly in the darkness. "What happened?"

Tears began to spill down her cheeks. Of all the people in the world she could possibly bump into at this moment, it would be him.

"I have to go." She choked out, wrenching herself from his grasp.

He grabbed her once more to stop her escape.

"Are you all right?" He demanded in a harsh voice while giving her a slight shake.

There were few things in this world he could not tolerate and seeing Chris in this emotional state topped that list.

"No!" She cried out, her voice echoing across the parking lot.

In a jumble or words and sobs, she managed to tell him about the rush of patients they had in the emergency room.

Once her ability to speak became impossible, he gripped her hand and took her back into the hospital.

"No. I don't want to go back inside!" she struggled against his hold.

She stilled as he led her up the emergency stairwell towards the roof.

He chose a spot overlooking Boston and sat down.

Ethan glanced up and saw she was immobile once again with tears falling in steady streams down her cheeks. Taking her hand, he tugged her down.

She collapsed beside him and buried her head against her knees, her body wracked with silent cries.

He'd seen her like this before. When Delores died, she'd been unable to stop her tears. He'd found her alone in the locker room, silently crying at the unfairness of it all.

Setting his hand on her shoulder, he gently pulled her closer to his side.

"You can't keep doing this, Chris." He told her. "If you keep taking death to heart like this, then being a doctor will destroy you."

She wiped her eyes, and settled her chin on her knees.

"I know that." She said in a voice cracking with emotion. "But it was so much, Ethan. Everywhere I turned there was someone in the midst of dying or who was screaming in pain. I wanted to fix it all but I couldn't."

"Did you help them?" He asked.

"If you can call it that." She said bitterly. "I assessed, tagged, and moved on like Zaid told me to."

He squeezed her in a side hug. "I never doubted for a moment that you did the right thing."

His comforting touch and praise tore at her heart.

"Don't." She pleaded. "Don't be nice to me right now."

Chris could feel the tears rising once more. After all they felt for one another, his quitting, and now showing up when she needed him most; she thought she would truly break if he was kind to her.

She rested her head on his shoulder, nuzzling close to him once his arm dropped. "Please sit here with me, but don't be nice."

Ethan leaned his head against hers and snorted. "Everyone complains when I'm not nice and yet here you are demanding the opposite."

Chris bit back a tearful smile. "I think this is one request of mine you're willing to give in."

"I think we both know I always give in to what you want."

"If that were true, you wouldn't have left Edenbrook." She mumbled. "And you wouldn't have left me."

He cursed. "Chris, you know why I left Edenbrook. And as for you..."

He trailed off.

She looked up at him.

"As for me?"

He met her red rimmed eyes and felt his will falter. He'd once had such plans to protect and guide her career forward. He was going to not only show her how to be a doctor but watch as she became a great one. He'd ended up doing nothing but letting her down in the end. He'd failed to keep his unexpected feelings for her in check and he'd failed her as a mentor.

Seeing the quiet anguish he was under, she nestled her head back on his shoulder, leaving the issue alone for once.

He swallowed the words that were demanding to come out. He wanted to tell her he'd never leave her. He would always want her.

He loved her.

I'm not worthy to tell her anything like that, he thought to himself. Not now, possibly not ever.

"What are you doing here?" She asked after a long stretch of silence.

"Marlene left me a message saying that the hospital needed all the help they could get." He answered, grateful she wasn't pushing him into revealing more of what he wasn't ready for.

"What took you so long?" She playfully nudged him with her elbow.

A hint of smile appeared on her face when she heard his exasperated groan.

"I was out of town, Rookie." He grumbled.

"Having a good time?" She asked.

"I wouldn't say that." He muttered. "I went to see my dad and then I went on to--"

He bit his tongue. He couldn't get her hopes up that his visits to Mrs. Martinez's family would come to any good.

"To where?" She asked.

"Nowhere in particular." He lied. "I needed to drive and clear my head."

"I think I need a vacation like that." She mumbled. "I wish I could forget and leave everything behind for a while."

He wrapped his arm around her once more. "It's a pipe dream. There's no way you can fully leave everything behind, no matter how badly you want to."

"How badly did you want to?"

"More than anything."

She slipped her arms around his waist and hugged him.

He held her, taking every bit of comfort she was willing to give him. It's ironic, he thought. He'd brought her up here to comfort her. He had no intentions of letting her know his own struggles.

Ethan should have known that out of everyone he knew, Chris would know what he was feeling. Not only that, she would also give him exactly what he needed from her in this moment.

Neither was sure how long they sat there, holding one another. The soothing hum of the city below them and the stars above were all they needed as they sat together in companionable silence.

When the first blush of dawn began to light the sky, Ethan whispered that he'd take her home.

He got up first and offered his hand to Chris.

She lifted her tear stained face up to smile softly at him.

Taking his hand, she stood up and was pulled into his embrace. He pressed a tender kiss to her forehead when she slipped her arms around him again.

"You're going to be okay." He said, lips brushing hers with each word.

She nodded, her eyes meeting his after one last sweet kiss.

"We both will." She vowed.

Together, hand in hand, they went off to face another day.

#open heart fanfic #ethan x chris #ethan ramsey x mc #choices open heart #choices fic writers creations #choices the stories you play

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cariantha · 8 months

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Drink Had Me

Book: Open Heart, Book 2 Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Dr. Sawyer Brooks) Rating: Teen Category: Fluff Word count: 3.3K Prompt: Ethan has too much to drink and winds up on Sawyer’s doorstep in the middle of the night. Event: I’m participating in the Song Rewrite Challenge hosted by @choicesprompts. This fic is a rewrite of Drink Had Me by Jordan Davis.

🎵Hell, I was up to nothing

🎵Just sittin' home alone

🎵Yeah, I was gonna cash it in

🎵About to put down my phone

🎵And I had a message waitin'

🎵Them boys won't let me sleep

🎵So I told 'em I would meet 'em out

🎵And just have one drink

Ethan was mentally and physically exhausted. He could feel the stress he’d been carrying deep in his bones. His muscles sighed as he sunk into the comfort of his couch and rested his head on the back cushion. Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath, enjoying the peace and quiet of his empty apartment.

He tried to push aside the thoughts that had plagued him. The budget crisis. The selfish billionaire. The competition with Tobias. The situation with his mother. But mostly, it was Sawyer that occupied his mind. He worried that the constant push and pull between them was nearing a breaking point.

She had recently gone behind his back and opened Pandora’s box. She compromised the team’s mission. She called him a “goddamn diva” in front of his colleagues. Worst still, it’s what she said when helping him set up his Pictagram profile. “It’s love, Ethan. It doesn’t have to make sense. I guess you just… feel it.” The words nagged at him constantly, and not because she was probably right - like she was right about everything else - but because he felt something. Something unfamiliar. Something scary. Something he hoped was reciprocated.

DING! That sound used to annoy him, but now it made him eager to check his phone, because there was only one person who insisted on texting him. Quickly reaching for his phone, he sighed disappointedly when he saw the message was not from Sawyer.

Ethan groaned. He had forgotten that this morning, while working out with his gym buddies, he made plans to meet them at Donahue's for drinks and a game of pool. In an attempt to rouse Rafael from his suspension-induced funk, Sawyer proposed the night out. And in all honesty, Ethan only agreed because he saw it as an opportunity to spend time with her. It was only after he committed to attend that Sawyer bothered to mention she had prior plans with Stephanie, their coma patient.

Ethan arrived at Donohue’s thirty minutes later and swore to himself he would only stay for one drink.

“... and then she said, ‘Oh, would you prefer to be called a spoiled child or an entitled jackass?’ You should have seen your face, man.” Baz, who had wandered over earlier to say hello, couldn’t contain his laughter as he told the story of Sawyer calling Ethan a diva to everyone gathered around the pool table.

Rolling his eyes, Ethan ordered another drink while the guys racked the pool balls for another game.

“... speaking of workouts... Raf, remember when you asked Sawyer why she liked to work out? And she said because she wants to look good naked. Dude. Best response ever,” Bryce recalled with a laugh as he shared another round of tequila shots.

Ethan gladly accepted, swallowing the cheap liquor in one gulp when the memory of Sawyer standing in front of his bedroom window came to mind.

Every time Sawyer’s name was mentioned, which was surprisingly often, Ethan put a glass to his mouth. Better that than inadvertently slipping and revealing something he shouldn’t.

“Okay, time for a round of Fuck-Marry-Kill,” Bryce announced, earning a groan from Rafael. “Since you’re so excited to play, Raf, you can go first. JLo, Shakira, Taylor.”

“Easy. Fuck JLo. Marry Shakira. Kill Taylor,” Rafael answered. After taking a sip of beer, he turned to Elijah. “Your turn. Lara Croft, Leeloo from Fifth Element, and umm… Jamie Lee Curtis' character in Halloween.”

“Damn, man. Uhhh…” Elijah twisted up his lips as he pondered his answer. “I guess I’d fuck Croft, marry Leeloo, and go all Michael Myers on JLC.”

Raising his hand excitedly, Baz jumped in. “Oh, oh, I’ve got one for Ethan… Harper, June, and Sawyer.”

The other men snapped their heads to Ethan, bracing for the explosive impact. But to everyone’s surprise, Ethan threw back another shot and answered without hesitation. “Fuck Harper. Marry Sawyer. Kill June.”

Reggie made the announcement for last call, and at midnight he kicked everyone out, including Ethan. The inebriated men stumbled outside to wait for their rides. Ethan decided to walk for a while, and bid them good night. He strolled down the block until he reached the rose garden near the hospital. Resting on a park bench, he dug his phone from his pocket. But instead of dialing for a ride to take him home, he called Sawyer.

🎵But the drink had me

🎵Callin' you up, talkin' all crazy

🎵Talkin' 'bout us

🎵And catchin' a ride over to your room

🎵And keepin' your roommates up past two

Sawyer’s phone lit up on her nightstand with an incoming call, but she didn’t notice. She had fallen asleep a couple hours ago.

On the other end of the line, Ethan heard her voice. “Hi there, you’ve reached Sawyer. Leave me a message.”

“Sawyer,” he sighed before continuing, “I don’t want to lose you.”

Leaning forward, he rested his elbows on his knees and stared at the phone screen. Sawyer’s contact picture smiled back at him. “I’m sorry I’ve been an asshole lately. I just… I want you so fucking bad,” he confessed. “I need you to be with me.”

He dropped his chin to his chest in defeat and growled. “But I can’t have you.”

He took a deep breath and lifted his head to look at her picture again. “I’ve been losing my goddamn patience with this situation. I don’t want to push you away anymore. It kills me to know that I’m hurting you, but I’m still afraid of what might happen if people find out about us.”

Ethan stood and held the phone at eye level as if trying to look her in the eye. “I feel like I’m on the verge of losing you, Sawyer.”

He began to pace back and forth and rambled on. “I’ve been thinking a lot about what you said a couple weeks ago. It really fucked me up, because I don’t think I’ve felt like this before.”

“God, Sawyer, you’re the best I’ve ever had,” he admitted, running his fingers through his hair. “I don’t want anyone else.”

He closed his eyes and whispered to himself. “Sawyer, say it back. Please say it back to me. I don’t want to be alone in this feeling.”

There was a long pause while Ethan stared at his phone, hoping for some sort of reply. “Fuck it. I’m coming over.”

<><><><><><><><><><>

It was nearly two o’clock in the morning when there was a knock on the apartment door. Sienna, who was still up baking, checked the peep hole and unlocked the door. “Dr. Ramsey! What are you doing here so late?”

His eyes were bloodshot and he smelled of whiskey and beer. The drink and exhaustion rapidly stripped away what little control of himself he had left. Ethan steadied himself with a hand on the doorframe and answered, “I need to talk to Sawyer. I need to see her. Is she here?”

Sienna invited him in. With her five-foot-nothing frame, she nervously guided the towering and swaying six-foot-four-inch sack of muscles into a seat at the kitchen table. “I’ll be right back.”

Gently knocking first, Sienna let herself into Sawyer’s room. “Sawyer? Sawyer, wake up,” she whispered loudly.

Sawyer awoke with a start, finding Sienna crouched at the side of her bed. “What’s wrong?” she panicked.

“Ummmm… Dr. Ramsey is here.”

“What?” she asked, confused.

“He said he needs to speak with you,” Sienna explained.

Sawyer threw her covers aside and stumbled out of bed wearing nothing but a t-shirt and underwear. She quickly checked the time on her phone, noticing the missed call and voicemail notifications from Ethan. “I swear to God, if he’s here to drag me out of bed for another diagnostics case…” she trailed off.

“I don’t think that’s why,” her friend said, leading her down the hallway.

Once her eyes adjusted to the fluorescent lighting in the kitchen, Sawyer spotted Ethan sitting at the kitchen table, his head buried in his hands. His body language reminded her of the times when he had felt pretty hopeless, like when Dolores died and when Naveen was sick. “Hey, what’s wrong?”

Ethan lifted his head and let out a small sigh of relief recognizing her. “I wanted to talk to you,” he said, his voice tired and gravelly.

She followed his eyes to Sienna, who had gone back to her baking. “Let’s go to my room.”

Ethan stood and followed her down the hall. A sudden wave of dizziness washed over him and he threw himself against the wall to keep from stumbling over. Sawyer grimaced at the loud thump, hoping it didn’t wake her other roommates. She quickly tucked herself under his arm and helped him the rest of the way.

Just as her door clicked closed, Jackie poked her head into the hallway. “What the hell was that?” she called out.

Sienna came into view from the kitchen. “Sorry, Jackie, that was me. Sorry I woke you.”

“Do you ever sleep, Trinh?” Jackie yawned, shutting her door and going back to bed.

🎵The drink had me

🎵Wantin' one more

🎵Wantin' to forget what we broke up for

🎵And doin' that make up, wake up thing

🎵I just went in there to have one drink

🎵But the drink had me

Sawyer sat Ethan down on the side of her bed, then stood in front of him casually crossing her arms. “What’s going on? Did something happen? Is this about your mom?”

His head felt like a sloshing fishbowl when he shook it. Focusing on her bare feet, he attempted to ground himself.

Getting more worried, Sawyer stroked her fingers through his hair. “Hey, talk to me.”

Slowly lifting his head, Ethan’s eyes trailed up her long legs to the oversized Hopkins t-shirt she wore. “Is that my shirt?”

Glancing down at the heather gray tee, she replied with a hint of embarrassment, “Yes.”

Sawyer braced her hands on his shoulders to keep her balance when Ethan tugged her close. Standing between his knees, he hugged her tightly around the waist and rested the side of his face against her stomach.

“I miss you,” he mumbled.

A beat later his hands dropped to the back of her thighs. His fingertips lightly caressed her soft skin, eliciting goosebumps. Lifting his eyes to gauge her reaction, he slowly slid his hands higher, palming her backside and giving a gentle squeeze.

“Ethan,” she warned, gripping his forearms to prevent his hands from wandering any further.

“I want you,” he said, kissing her belly through the t-shirt she had stolen from him.

“Ethan, you’re drunk.”

“Say it back,” he whined.

“Say what back?”

“That you still want me.”

She sighed deeply. “Ethan…” When he looked at her with desperate, pleading eyes, she took a seat on his knee. “I want you too,” she repeated and cupped his cheek, “but not like this. Not a drunken mistake.”

“It’s not a mistake,” Ethan asserted. “I know what I want.”

She shook her head. “I know you, Ethan. You’ll regret it in the morning when you’re clearheaded.”

Ethan began to protest when the nausea hit. “I won’t… I–,” he paused and swallowed, “I’m going to be sick.”

Sawyer jumped off his lap and grabbed her garbage pail just in time. Ethan wretched the contents of his stomach while she soothingly rubbed his back. When he was finished, Sawyer offered him a tissue and a sip from her water bottle. She then knelt before him and removed his shoes and socks.

“What are you doing?”

“Getting you ready for bed. You’re in no shape to go anywhere right now. You can stay here and sleep it off.” As she stood, she reached for the hem of his shirt and lifted it over his head. “Scoot back and lie down,” she instructed. Ethan complied.

She met his hooded eyes, giving him a look of warning. “Don’t get any ideas,” she said before unbuttoning his pants. “Lift your butt.” After carefully tugging off his jeans, she neatly folded his clothes and set them atop her dresser. Returning to his side, she tucked him under the covers.

“Where are you going?” he murmured when she stepped toward the door.

“I’m just going to clean this up and grab you some aspirin,” she answered, picking up the small waste bin. “Do you need or want anything else?”

Ethan shook his head.

“I’ll be right back,” she promised with an assuring smile.

When Sawyer returned a few minutes later, Ethan’s eyes were closed and he was lightly snoring. She turned out the lights and crawled under the covers. Hugging the edge of her full-size bed, she resisted the urge to curl up next to him, and soon dozed off.

🎵Next morning came too early

🎵Heart poundin' in my head

🎵And it took me just a second

🎵To realize I know this bed

🎵And it ain't where I belong

🎵But you got my T-shirt on

🎵I blame the alcohol

🎵No, it ain't my fault

🎵The drink had me

Ethan’s head throbbed. The sound of distant, muffled voices had woken him. He cracked his eyes open, thankful for the dim surroundings. Blinking away the fog in his vision, he focused on the ceiling. There was something familiar about the dangling light fixture overhead. A single lightbulb hung from a rope cord. The gentle breeze that wafted through the window caused it to sway back and forth in a hypnotizing motion. Aware that he was not at home, Ethan’s eyes swept the small bedroom, taking in every detail. As recognition set in, his heart began to race, intensifying the pounding in his head.

Taking a deep breath through his nose, his senses were overwhelmed with the sweet smell of her. Daring to cast a quick look downward, he found Sawyer tucked into his side. Her arm was draped across his torso, her thigh across his waist, with a foot nestled between his legs. Ethan’s right arm was at her back, holding her close. His left hand gripped the back of her bent knee, as if he had been using the leverage to keep her locked in place. She was wearing his t-shirt, and he was only wearing underwear.

He reached into the black box of his mind for any remembrance, but came back empty handed. He didn’t know what to be more upset about. The eventual fallout from this reckless encounter, or the cruel twist of fate of taking Sawyer to bed again and not remembering a damn thing about it.

When her alarm rang out, Ethan silently cursed. “No, not yet.” He needed more time to figure his way out of this mess. More time holding her body against his.

Sawyer groaned in frustration as her phone sang a melodic tune of chirping birds. As she did every morning, she buried the tip of her cold nose into her pillow and inhaled. Only it wasn’t her pillow she smooshed her face into this morning. It was Ethan’s chest. His warmth and scent aroused her senses, and she was instantly awake.

Seeing that he was too, she pushed back from him and tried to cover herself with the forgotten comforter. “Shit, sorry,” she whispered, rolling away to silence her phone.

Her surprise and embarrassment confused him. “Why are you apologizing?”

She turned to face him, making sure to keep a safe distance. “I tried to keep to my side. I must have rolled over in my sleep and snuggled up to you.”

“Keep to your side? Did we not…?”

She shook her head.

Ethan looked up at the ceiling and expelled a breath.

Sensing his relief, Sawyer swiftly climbed out of bed. “I’m going to get ready for work. Your clothes are on the dresser and your phone is charging on the desk. My roommates should be leaving soon.”

“Sawyer-”

“It’s fine, Ethan,” she said, rummaging through her dresser drawers. “We can talk about it later when you feel better. Or if you prefer, not at all, because nothing happened.” Ethan rubbed the spot between his eyes. “There's some water and aspirin on the nightstand,” she pointed out before stepping into the hall and closing the door behind her.

A while later, they left the apartment and shared a ride to the hospital, successfully avoiding the topic of last night. They limited their conversation to simple questions and one-word answers, merely enough to get out the door and on their way.

“Thanks for the ride. I’ll see you tomorrow,” Sawyer said, and not waiting for reciprocation, she hurried away.

Ethan watched until she disappeared through the sliding doors of the hospital’s main entrance. He cursed at himself the entire walk to Donohue’s to retrieve his car. They may not have slept together, but he still ended up on her doorstep last night and tangled in her bed this morning. He hoped once the hangover cleared, he would remember why, so they could clear the air.

<><><><><><><><><><>

Sawyer was slow to leave the diagnostics office when their team meeting ended the next day. The tension between her and Ethan was so thick it felt like it could be cut with a knife. She couldn’t take it anymore. She turned to study him, watching as he stacked case files, doing his best to ignore her. “This feels like the morning after Miami all over again,” she finally spoke.

Ethan stopped what he was doing, took a deep breath, and braced himself for the conversation he had been dreading. “I’m sorry for inconveniencing you the other night.”

She shook her head as if she didn’t care about that. Shifting her gaze out the window, she bit the corner of her lip before speaking again. “Do you remember calling me? Leaving a voicemail?”

Ethan swallowed hard. He had checked his phone yesterday and knew that he dialed her number, but didn’t recall leaving a message. “No. I only remember bits and pieces after leaving Donahue’s.” He took a cautious step toward her. “What... what did I say?” he asked, trying to hide his nerves.

“It doesn't matter,” she sighed, still looking out the window, “you probably didn't mean it.” She downplayed her disappointment with a quiet chuckle, “I never pegged you for a sappy drunk.”

Ethan stepped in front of her, cupping her chin to force her to look at him. “I meant it,” he said firmly.

“You just said you don’t remember–”

“I don't,” he interjected, “but if the result was me showing up at your door, and waking up with you in my arms, then whatever I said… I meant it.” Gazes locked on each other, Ethan gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. He breathed a sigh of relief when Sawyer’s lips finally turned up in a small, forgiving smile.

That smile slowly changed to a mischievous one. Ceasing the opportunity, she started to back away as she spoke. “Well in that case…" She bit her lip to keep from laughing. “I want to get married in June. A fancy church wedding and a huge reception. Oh, and let’s honeymoon in Paris! It will be so romantic.”

“Funny–”

“But you should know, I plan to keep my last name,” she continued teasing.

“You’re a brat. Get out of here,” he demanded, playfully tossing a pen in her direction as she scrambled to leave.

“Hey!” she yelped, using the door as a shield.

“Oh, and I want my shirt back!” he hollered.

Poking her head back in, she offered a deal. “If you can get me out of it, Ramsey... it’s yours. See ya!”

A/N: Ethan's drunken confession was also inspired by the song Say It Back by Nicklas Sahl.

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics @peonierose@potionsprefect @trappedinfanfiction @jerzwriter @queencarb @coffeeheartaddict2 @quixoticdreamer16 @jamespotterthefirst @liaromancewriter @zealouscanonindeer @tveitertotwrites @tessa-liam @youlookappropriate @kyra75 @socalwriterbee @txemrn

#open heart #open heart choices #open heart fanfic #ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x mc #ethan x mc #ethan x sawyer #choices stories you play #choices open heart #playchoices #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #choicesprompts #songrewrite

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coffeeheartaddict2 · 4 months

Text

Green with Envy

Book: Open Heart (post series)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC Casey Ramsey, featuring F!OC Dr Estelle Campion

Word count: 772

Warnings: brief mention of bio- weapon attack

Catergory: fluff with slight angst

Rating: PG

Summary: Despite normally keeping PDA to a minimum in public, especially at work, Casey feels the need to mark her territory, especially after a not so pleasant encounter with Dr Estelle Campion

Disclaimer: Characters belong to Pixelberry.

Authors note: Prompt from this list as requested @jerzwriter I hope you enjoy my take Elsa. This story uses prompt 46

😘😘😘😘😘😘😘😘😘

It had been several days since her unpleasant encounter with Dr Campion. She had told Ethan what had happened and he was furious. She knew what she was alleging was untrue, her and Ethan loved each other very much, despite their busy work schedules and but she could not shake the feeling that she would try something. She knew that Ethan had met her, told her once and for all that there would be any form of relationship with her but she knew of her history and whilst she was still working at Edenbrook Casey was not so sure that she would not try anything again.

Casey, as well as Ethan and Tobias had managed to avoid her and as far as Casey was concerned the end of the study that she was involved in could not come quick enough.

Meanwhile Estelle was still shaken. She remembered Ethan having quite the temper from her time in Hopkins, however, she had never seen an outburst from such a protective stance. The fact that he had grown, moved on, confronted the demons that plagued him in medical school was a shock. Sure, the reluctance to get closure on his mother was more than understandable and the fears he had about being in a relationship were perfectly valid but to change so much, that is what shook her.

As much as Ethan, Casey and to an extent Tobias tried to steer clear of Estelle, there were times where paths crossed. Many times the other party was able to turn away but today there was no escape. It was a luncheon for senior staff and research teams to celebrate the success the research department had been having with some studies advancing to the human trial phase with the FDA. The mood was jovial, celebrating the success of others and just the general high morale with a hospital with Caroline Bloom at the helm meant that those who normally shied away from these functions actually looked forward to it.

Casey was talking to Tobias, questioning him as to why he has not taken the Maitotoxin antidote into the research realm when Ethan came over.

“I will shadow Casey’s question Tobias, why not?”

“So shall I take the me being questioned as to why by you that I, as well as the team members who worked on the antidote to pursue the research?”

Casey was taken aback.

“We agreed as a team to not publish or do future research without yours and Rafael’s explicit consent. Yes the breakthrough was huge but it did not mean we were not affected by the situation.” Said Tobias.

“I can not speak on Raf’s behalf. I am for the research to be conducted ,Tobias. Enough time has pass, it does not mean it was not traumatic but let some good come from it.”

Tobias nodded his head. He made a point to contact Raf and discuss with him.

Unbeknownst to the trio, they had been spied upon by Estelle. She knew she shouldn’t be jealous but she was. It was apparent after Ethan’s outburst that she had been consigned the the scrap heap of both Ethan and Tobias’s lives. She did understand why but it did not make it hurt any less.

Tobias eventually went to mingle and Ethan and Casey spoke to other guests. Everyone they spoke too was excited that the Diagnostics Team was going to eventually have a research arm and a medical arm. Casey stated that when her and Tobias took over that is what they wanted to do long term and she too was excited, it was also daunting in a way as she would be in charge of the medical arm but as everyone said the results were speaking for themselves. A humbled Casey squeezed Ethan’s hand, that was as much public affection they embarked on, that and the occasional brief and chaste kiss but looking around she saw Dr Campion staring directly at her and Ethan. She could feel her blood start to boil. In that moment she thought to hell with their rules. She turned to face Ethan, reached her hand and traced his jaw then kissed him hard. Ethan was taken aback but returned the kiss. They separated after a few minutes and when Casey looked she could see the back of Dr Campion, rushing away and she thought to herself, “yes he is mine and you can not have him.”

Estelle left when she saw the kiss. She was even more jealous now and if it was not already, it was now crystal clear that Ethan was well entruly lost to her.

—-

Authors note: thanks for the prompt Elsa. I decided to do Casey making someone jealous, it was easier for me to write.

Tagging: @jerzwriter @liaromancewriter @cariantha @jamespotterthefirst @genevievemd @crazy-loca-blog @bex-la-get @a-crepusculo @alj4890 @zealouscanonindeer @potionsprefect @tessa-liam @youlookappropriate @schnitzelbutterfingers @binny1985 @socalwriterbee

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

#open heart #ethan ramsey #choices fanfic writers creations #casey valentine #choices #tobias carrick #fic of the week #prompt asks #open heart choices

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openheartfanfics · 1 month

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Newly Added Fics

Aug 10 - 16, 2024

Ethan x F!MC

A Night at the Opera - @coffeeheartaddict2 ♥

It is their first date night after getting engaged and they attend the Opera and the opera that is playing is the one that they saw when they first went to the Opera together. [Public Places]

I Thee Wed... - @liaromancewriter ☁

Ethan and Cassie are ready to say, ‘I do,’ but they forget one important step. [Wedding]

The Next Chapter - @liaromancewriter 🦚

Ethan looks back at the man he was through the lens of his apartment. [Ethan POV]

Multiple Pairings

Mono~poly - @jerzwriter 📚

[extended: wip] What happens when something that was supposed to be just fun turns into something real? Ethan Ramsey x MC, Tobias Carrick x MC

CH 5: Beautiful Days

Rafael x F!MC

Going To Visit Daddy - @rafasgirl23415 📸

Casey takes Isabelle to visit Raf’s grave like she promised.

Home Sweet Home - @rafasgirl23415 📸

After a few days in hospital recovering, Casey is discharged and finally brings Isabelle home.

My Precious Miracle - @rafasgirl23415 📸

Casey struggles to comprehend how close she came to losing Isabelle.

Please Keep Our Girl Safe - @rafasgirl23415 📸

Casey can’t sleep due to flashbacks from the nightmare she had during the last weeks of her pregnancy.

Sienna x M!OC

Ready To Go Home - @rafasgirl23415 📸

Sienna is finally discharged five days after her caesarean & takes Ava & Rafa home to meet their big sister.

Tobias x F!MC

A Favor - @tveitertotwrites 📱

,When Adelaide finds out Landry moved next door to her and they share a wall, she has an idea.

Searching - @alj4890 🎭

Rewriting Book 1's Chapter Four but with Tobias as the attending instead of Ethan. [1.4]

To Love & Protect - @jerzwriter ☁

The chemical attack was over six months ago, and Casey is trying to adjust to her new normal with her new boyfriend at her side.

SUBMIT OPEN HEART FICS & WRITERS HERE

#open heart #choices open heart #playchoices #open heart fanfiction #open heart fanfics #choices fanfic #choices fanfiction #ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x mc #rafael aveiro #rafael averio x mc #sienna trinh #sienna trinh x oc #tobias carrick #tobias carrick x mc #newly added fics

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jamespotterthefirst · 2 years

Text

Fearless (Ethan x MC)

Book: Open Heart, Year 2 Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Dr. Lilac Allende) Word count: 850 Rating/ Warning: Teen/ Mentions of mental health

Premise: The effects of the attack become harder to ignore when she succumbs to a panic attack.

Note: Hurt/Comfort

Lilac's hands shake as she struggles with the cuff. In the midst of the chaos shattering within her, she notes how pale her skin looks, almost ghostly. The frenetic drumming of her heart reclaims her attention, thundering so fiercely against her ribcage that she is convinced its beats are numbered.

“Fuck!”

Numb fingers drop the blood pressure cuff.

Calm down.

Weak knees finally give out and Lilac barely feels the hardwood floor against her knees.

Breathe.

Breathing hurts. Breathing feels like a lungful of ice. A breath is akin to setting her insides on fire.

The bedroom spins around her.

Her heart is relentless, violently beating against her throat.

Beat, beat, beat…

It won't stop.

Beat, beat, beat, beat, beat, beat, beat.

Each one faster than the last.

Heart attack?

The drumming is all she hears.

Stroke?

It tries to keep her alive.

Asphyxia.

It tries to kill her.

“Fucking—”

The words cut off in a strangled sob. She is destined for that hospital bed again. Her fate is to die there.

Tears burn her skin as they fall. Each breath is a terrified wheeze.

“Lilac?”

Strong hands guide her up, anchoring arms and warm chest steadying her.

“Breathe,” his rich voice instructs. It's like a distant echo, a faraway light piercing the darkness.

“Ethan,” she breathes. “Something is wrong.”

“Focus on the present, Lilac.”

Danny and Bobby are on the linoleum floor, gasping. Her own lungs scream for air.

Rafael is on his hospital bed, his eyes closed. Lilac shuts her eyes tight but it feels like broken glass prickling her lids.

The silent killer courses through her as she stares at a plastic cover. A cold, desolate hospital room will be the last thing she sees before she dies. She's going to die alone.

“I'm here,” Ethan says. “You're safe, Lilac. Remember that and breathe. You're safe.”

“I'm dying, Ethan,” she tells him, panicked. “My blood pressure... My heart—”

Lilac breaks off, feeling her pulse rise like the slashing of a violent storm.

“Focus on my voice, Lilac. Breathe in and out slowly. Take your time.”

Breathing is agony but his voice guides her. Very carefully, she inhales a breath, terrified of the pain… except there is no pain. Just the beating of her terrified heart. The air leaves her in a shaky sigh.

“Concentrate on what you can feel and see. Bring your mind back to this moment right here.”

Unyielding, cold hardwood against her knees, cooling her sizzling skin.

The soft, thick wool of his favorite knit sweater.

Ethan's concerned face as the fog clears, blue eyes assessing her with the diligence of a doctor and all the love of a partner.

More air fills her lungs, her pulse steadying as it leaves her.

“That's it,” he encourages. “Take a few more deep breaths, Lilac.”

After a few more minutes, the thunder of her heart recedes and she can hear the busy Boston street in the distance once again. Lilac closes her eyes, the relief weakening her knees almost as much as the panic had. Ethan's arms anchor her in place.

“Better?” he asks quietly.

Eyes still closed, she nods.

“Better,” she assures him in a whisper.

“You're safe.”

The words, uttered like a promise for the third time that evening, make her feel weightless.

“I know that,” she says, opening her eyes. “Logically and medically, I know that but when a panic attack happens I—”

Her throat clamps up painfully. It takes all the strength in her weak body to keep the tears at bay. Ethan notices.

“Shhh,” he comforts her, pulling her close. “None of this is your fault, Lilac.”

At that, she cries, giving up the fight with a tearful little sob. It's not the words that make her crumble but the resolute conviction in his voice.

“I just hate feeling this way,” she cries softly. “My mind is always reliving the attack, thinking of the many things I could've done differently. Or fearing that the toxin could still somehow be in my body, even though I'm a doctor and I know that's not true. I hate feeling this scared and weak.”

Gently, Ethan pulls back to look her in the eye.

“You're not weak,” he tells her firmly, the truth shining in those blue eyes. “You're the bravest person I know.”

His lips against her forehead punctuate the proclamation, so delicate and tender that Lilac sways briefly on her feet. They fill her with newfound courage, inspiring her to face the undeniable truth— the same she had been running from since the attack.

“I want to see someone about this.”

Ethan contemplates her for the briefest of moments and then, he nods.

“I'm in contact with many outstanding colleagues who can help us. There are some I admire who would provide the best care.”

Lilac only nods.

“Thank you.”

“It's no problem. I can email them right now.”

She grips his hand.

“Not just for that. Thank you for being here.”

Ethan pauses only to push a wayward lock of hair behind her ear.

“No need to thank me, Lilac. I'm here for you. I always will be.”

Note and disclaimer: This is based solely on my own experience with anxiety, panic attacks, and PTSD.

Thank you so much for reading!

PS. After this, I hope to write some holiday content. Wish me luck!

#open heart #ethan ramsey #ethan x mc #playchoices

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liaromancewriter · 1 year

Text

Begin Again

Premise: Cassie needs closure on the events of the poison attack.

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine); feat. Tobias Carrick Rating/Category: Teen. Angsty Fluff. Words: 2,100

A/N: Submission for @aprilchallenge prompt "sunshine" and for @tobias-carrick-appreciation-week - Day 8.

The hallowed halls of Boston’s Trinity Church were solemn as befitted the occasion. The morning sun shone through the stained glass windows above the sanctuary, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the wall. Under the soaring ceiling, painted decorations, colorful mosaics and vibrant murals brought home the sacred nature of worship.

The reverend presiding over the Easter Sunday service spoke of redemption, forgiveness and a chance to live a better life. Cassie Valentine bowed her head in prayer, letting the serene words from the sermon wash over her troubled thoughts.

Six months ago, she had been on death’s door, waiting for the poison coursing through her body to claim another victim. Cassie hadn’t fully realized how precious life was until that moment.

Over time, she had come to accept what she couldn’t change and thought she had forgiven herself for her role in the events leading up to that moment. As the choir's voices rose in song, she wondered if the words were divinity’s way of telling her it was time to move on.

When she stepped up to the altar to receive Communion, she felt the peace she’d been seeking warm her insides. And yet, a niggling sense of disquiet remained as she buttoned up her red spring coat, the thick material flaring around her knees, and headed home.

There was one more step she needed to take to begin again.

Two days later, Cassie swiped her card and pushed the handle to slide open the doors to the diagnostic team’s office. She’d just finished her half-shift in the ICU when she received a page from Ethan.

“Do we have a case?” she asked, sitting in the visitor’s chair across from his desk.

He glanced up from the computer screen and removed the reading glasses perched on the bridge of his nose.

“No, but your labs are back,” he said, picking up a patient file and flipping it open.

Ethan had been running Cassie’s bloodwork every month since the attack. The treatment she and Rafael had received was experimental, and there was no telling how long it would hold or what was the long-term effect.

As he’d done during the poison attack, Ethan took over as her treating physician, monitoring her labs and scans for any signs of change.

“Your white blood cell count and ESR are slightly elevated,” he said, handing her a printout of the test results. “But within the accepted range. So it might just be due to the cold you were battling last week.”

Cassie scanned the results and noted the pathologist’s comments at the bottom of the page. All clear, she sighed in relief.

“There’s still residual scarring on your lungs.” He glanced at his computer monitor.

Ethan swiveled the screen sideways so she could see the X-ray scan. He pointed to the faint shadowy lines, circling the area with the laser pointer on his pen. “But it’s less than it was before, so….”

Cassie hid a smile at his objective tone. Technically, it was frowned upon for physicians to treat their families and loved ones. But no one dared tell Dr. Ramsey whom he could or couldn’t take on as a patient. Not that she wanted anyone else in charge of her care.

“…using the inhaler for now, especially if you feel your chest tightening after a run,” he continued. “Don’t let things exacerbate. You might think you’re fine, but your body doesn’t.”

Cassie listened to Ethan while reading the radiologist’s report. She asked him a few questions and felt satisfied with her progress. But something had been bothering her since church on Sunday, and she decided to just ask him.

“Hey, Ethan?” she began, hesitant about his reaction knowing their relationship. “How much do you know about the chemical composition of the antidote? Did Carrick talk to you about it at all?”

He stilled, a worried look gathering in his blue eyes. Cassie thought he might not respond, but he nodded as if coming to an agreement with himself.

“I know enough,” he said. “Organic chemistry has never been my strong suit. But I met Carrick while you were on medical leave. He explained what went into developing the antidote and the potential side effects, as he understood them.”

He stopped, seemingly lost in thought, tapping his fingers against the desk. Cassie started to prompt him, but then his eyes snapped into hers.

“What is this really about, Cassie?” Ethan queried.

Cassie wanted to shrug it off, but the feeling of disquiet that had persisted the last couple of weeks wouldn’t let her.

“Do you ever get that feeling of something left unfinished?” When he nodded slowly, she kept going. “I’ve been trying to put what happened behind me, but I’ve realized I can’t do that until I understand how I’m still alive.”

She stood up and started pacing in front of his desk, needing an outlet for the stress and frustration trapped inside her.

“It’s like I’m missing a piece of the puzzle. I was there, but it felt like it was happening to someone else,” Cassie stressed, willing him to understand. “But I can’t reconcile everything in my head. Until I have all the answers, I’ll never move on. I’ll always be that person with sunken eyes in a shapeless hospital gown, waiting to find out if I’ll ever see the sun rise again.”

“Okay,” was all he said before picking up his phone and tapping on the screen.

“What are you doing?” Cassie asked, confused at his non-reaction.

“Getting you answers,” he said, not looking up from the phone. “Carrick has an outpatient clinic on Friday. It’s the earliest he’s available. He says he can fit you in around one o’clock.”

“You texted Tobias? I’m surprised you have his number saved,” she mused, tapping one finger against her lips. “Are you friends now?”

“Not quite. He’s listed under ‘Asshole’ in my contacts,” Ethan smirked, making Cassie laugh. “Go see him. Get the answers you need. I’ll get someone to cover your patients.”

Cassie took a taxi to Mass Kenmore’s facility across town on Friday. Morning rounds had run over, and she didn’t want to take a chance on the subway. It was almost time for her appointment when she checked in with the receptionist at the outpatient clinic.

Tobias must have given the nursing staff advance notice. They didn’t ask questions or have her complete a patient intake form. Cassie had just sat down in the waiting room when they called her name and escorted her to an exam room.

“Doctor Valentine, what a surprise,” Tobias drawled once the door closed behind her.

He stood behind a desk, arms folded across his chest and a wolfish grin on his lips. It was the same one Cassie remembered from that long-ago softball game.

“Is it really a surprise if I’m listed in your appointment calendar?” she countered, crossing the linoleum floor to stand before him, her chin raised stubbornly.

She was grateful to him for saving her life, but his pompous attitude always rubbed her the wrong way.

“It is, knowing who set up that appointment,” he said. His hazel eyes glittered with amusement. “I don’t know what was more shocking. Ethan reaching out after all these months or him texting me for a favor.”

“It surprised me too,” Cassie admitted. “But he knew it was important to me.”

Tobias didn’t speak; he just stared at her. Cassie could read the calculation in his eyes. Rumors about her and Ethan had swirled between the two hospitals even before his grand declaration a couple of months ago.

Despite how circumspect they were in the hospital, Cassie still received the occasional side looks and heard whispers from those that didn’t know them. She was prepared for Tobias to say something snide, but he surprised her with his following words.

“Well, I’m glad to help. Please,” Tobias said, indicating the visitor’s chair.

Gone was the arrogant competitor who seemed to savor the thrill of the chase and the win. In his place was a warm and considerate doctor with friendly eyes, someone she wouldn’t mind knowing.

“So, you had questions about the antidote?” He folded his hands on the desktop and gazed at her expectantly.

“Yes. Lately, I keep reliving that day and what happened to the others and me. My labs are consistently clear, and there are still lingering symptoms of pneumonitis. Nothing too serious. Still, there are times I wake up in the middle of the night, unable to breathe, a familiar crawling sensation under my skin.”

“It’s likely psychosomatic,” he said gently. “Ethan sent over your file. From what I could see, there are no signs of the maitotoxin. The compound did what it was designed to do. It prevented the maitotoxin from spreading further and attaching to your plasma membranes. Gave your body time to focus on flushing the toxins out.”

Cassie pursed her lips. “Could you walk me through the process of the antidote and how it works? Understanding the nitty-gritty might help me feel more in control of my health.”

Tobias watched her from across the desk with a considering look. And then he leaned back in his chair, locking his hands behind his head.

“Okay. How good are you at chemistry?”

Cassie made a face. It was not her best subject in college or medical school. Tobias must have read her thoughts, for he chuckled good-naturedly.

“You really are Ethan’s protégé, aren’t you?” he snorted. “The man’s a certified genius, but put complex chemical formulas on the screen, and it might as well be a foreign language.”

“Patients don’t care if you can read chemical formulas,” she argued. “All they want is for someone to listen and to find a way to help them.”

“Two peas in a pod,” he smiled, shaking his head.

He straightened in his chair and turned to face the computer in the corner. He placed his right hand on the mouse and pulled the keyboard closer.

“I’ve been tweaking the formula for the compound in my free time,” he explained, his long fingers drifting across the keys of the keyboard. “We didn’t have time to test it before for obvious reasons, but there’s potential to use the antidote for other toxins. Okay. Here we go.”

Cassie scanned the three-dimensional chemical structure displayed on the screen. There were notations of chemical symbols overlaid on the design. Some she recognized quickly, but others she’d need to look up in the periodic table. She read the observations listed on the side of the screen and realized that Rafael was Patient A and she was Patient B.

She listened attentively as Tobias took her through the steps and the team’s observations from bloodwork done as the toxin was being flushed out of their systems. She smiled in gratitude when he answered her questions patiently, taking the time to explain the minutiae.

By the time they were done, Cassie felt calmer and more settled than she had in a long time.

“Thank you,” she said as he walked her out. “I don’t know if I’ve said this before, but thank you for giving me another chance at life.”

“Medicine’s a team effort,” he said, facing her as they stood in the hallway leading to the main reception.

A lifetime ago, she remembered running down that hallway with Baz, making their escape while Tobias and the security guard chased after them. His lips twisted in a wry grin as if reading her thoughts.

“Besides, the fifty-year Glenfiddich your brother sent me was thanks enough,” he remarked. “Don’t know if I’ve ever had scotch quite that old or that smooth.”

Cassie hid her surprise. She had no idea Max even knew who Tobias was beyond the basics. He certainly hadn’t mentioned this to her.

“Take care, Cassie,” Tobias said, patting her arm. “If you have more questions, you know how to reach me.”

With that, he stepped away and walked back toward the outpatient clinic.

Cassie strode past the reception, laughing inside at the perplexed look on the security guard’s face as he tried to place her.

She exited the hospital and crossed the street to a small green square with wooden benches set back from the walking path. She thought it must be a popular spot for the hospital, noting various individuals in white coats and scrubs enjoying the spring day.

Finding an unoccupied bench, she sat down and turned her face towards the sun, letting its warmth fill her with contentment and the will to start anew without fear.

---------------------

All Fics & Edits: @annfg8 @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @doriopenheart @genevievemd @headoverheelsforramsey @lucy-268 @jamespotterthefirst @jerzwriter @lady-calypso @mainstreetreader @peonierose @potionsprefect @queencarb @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @socalwriterbee @takemyopenheart @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @hopelessromantic1352 @mrs-ramsey

#ethan ramsey #open heart #ethan ramsey x mc #open heart choices #tobias carrick #open heart fanfics #choices fanfiction #open heart fanfiction #choices fanfics #ethan ramsey x cassie valentine #writers on tumblr #short story

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choicespride · 3 months

Text

Choices Pride 2024 Week 4 Masterlist

Bloodbound

Kink Sketch - MC (Magdalene Constantino) x Gaius Augustine - @gaiuskamilah

Crimes of Passion

SpreadJoy #895 - Astrid Thorne - @storyofmychoices

The Deadliest Game

SpreadJoy #899 - Dante Valdez - @storyofmychoices

High School Story/HSS: Class Act

Bad Boy Michael CG - Michael Harrison - @peonyblossom

Mila and Skye Picrew - OC (Mila Delgado); Skye Crandall - @lover-also-fighter-also

SpreadJoy #898 - Caleb Mitchell - @storyofmychoices

Hollywood U

Diva!Jackie - f!MC (Jackie Winters) - @peonyblossom

Jackie Hiking CG - f!MC (Jackie Winters) - @peonyblossom

Yes, Professor 🥵 - Thomas Hunt - @peonyblossom

Hot Couture

SpreadJoy #897 - Hazel Nguyen - @storyofmychoices

It Lives Anthology

andy binding + top surgery sketches - Andy Kang - @gaiuskamilah

Pride Edits - m!MC (Vax Vũ-Verdant, ILW) - @kilvalir

Laws of Attraction

Double A - f!MC (Arinya Manithikhun) x Aislinn Tanaka - @gaiuskamilah

Nightbound

SpreadJoy #894 - Garrus - @storyofmychoices

Open Heart

Canon Doodles - m!MC (Jensen Valentine) x Bryce Lahela; Sienna Trinh; Jackie Varma; Elijah Green - @mydemonsdrivealimo

Chef!Ethan - Ethan Ramsey - @peonyblossom

SpreadJoy #896 - Rafael Aveiro - @storyofmychoices

SpreadJoy #900 - Bryce Lahela - @storyofmychoices

Sunkissed

Summer Nights 🌅 - f!MC (Callie Summer) x Eliana Flores - @peonyblossom

Crossovers

Lovely Ladies Picrews - Daenarya (f!human!MC, Blades of Light and Shadow); Alex Hunt (f!MC, Hollywood U); Nyx Selenstra (nb!OC, Blades of Light and Shadow); Calli Rossi (f!MC, Veil of Secrets) - @storyofmychoices

Sydney & Callie + Flags - Open Heart; Sunkissed - m!MC (Sydney Valentine, OH); f!MC (Callie Summers, Sunkissed) - @peonyblossom

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jerzwriter · 2 years

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An Unexpected Valentine

Book: Open Heart (Book 2)

Pairing: Rafael Aveiro x F!MC (Carrie Valentine)

Featuring: Bryce Lahela, "Vovo" Aveiro

Rating: Teen

Category: Fluff

Summary: It's Raf and Carrie's first Valentine's Day together, and he has planned a perfect day for them, but nothing ever goes according to plan. But by the end of the day, Raf is sure of one thing, it's the perfect Valentine's Day, and he has the only Valentine he'll ever need.

Words: 2067

A/N: This one is going out to @twinkleallnight, who requested a fic for her favorite, Rafael. I hope I did it justice for you. And a special thank you to the lovely @missameliep for helping me with the Brazillian cultural references. You are a gem, and we're all lucky to have you in the fandom! Participating in @choices-february2023 Day 14 Valentine's Day

It was Valentine’s Day morning at Edenbrook Hospital, and every nook and cranny seemed to be adorned in pink and red. Balloons, streamers, flowers, cupcakes … even the staff’s attire seemed to be prescribed by Cupid himself. The HR Department had a long-standing joke that making it impossible to forget the day was an employee benefit, leading to happy partners throughout Boston. Just one more service they offered to the community!

But one employee needed no reminder. Rafael Aveiro had been meticulously planning this day from the moment he told Carrie Valentine those three little words, and then she said them back. He was a romantic at heart, so he would have made a fuss over Valentine’s Day even if it wasn’t named after his girlfriend. Carrie always laughed and explained that wasn’t how the holiday got its name, but Raf refused to accept it. A celebration of love for all? Of course. But for him, the day was dedicated to his Carrie; now, it was his favorite holiday of all.

He had worked the overnight shift and was getting ready to leave Edenbrook, knowing Carrie would arrive shortly after he left. While he couldn’t be there to greet her, a bouquet of red roses and a box filled with chocolate-covered strawberries would. Later, he arranged for lunch to be delivered from her favorite bistro in Back Bay. Then tonight, he would pick her up at seven, and the real celebration would begin.

His excitement morphed into an ever-present smile on his face. Nothing was bringing him down today. The hospital’s gift shop was opening as he passed by, and he couldn’t resist slipping to buy one more thing. A small, pink teddy bear for Carrie was under one arm, and a bouquet of flowers for Vovo was under the other when he heard a familiar voice beckoning from behind.

“Awww, Raf… you shouldn’t have! I told you, darling. You’re all the gift I need!”

Raf could feel the megawatt smile before he saw it.

“Then you’ll be delighted to know they’re not for you, Bryce.”

Bryce gasped and grabbed his chest in mock horror. “Now my day is ruined! But,” he continued, admiring the gifts in Raf’s hands, “at least you’re taking care of Carrie, so you’re off the hook.”

“Well, one is for Carrie, and the other is for my Vovo.”

“Ah, so you’ll have two happy ladies today! What are your plans tonight? Anything big?”

“I’m taking Carrie to Oliveira’s Steakhouse for dinner, Café Brazil for dessert, and then dancing at this little club I found on Tremont.”

“Nice! Is it a surprise?”

“Mmmm, I have surprises planned for her during the night, but she knows what we’re doing. You know Carrie, she doesn’t like big surprises.”

“Well, it sounds like a great. I suppose me third wheeling is out of the question.”

“Any other night, I’d be happy to have you join us, but tonight, it’s our first Valentine’s Day, and this is all about Carrie and me… so….”

“I was only teasing,” Bryce grinned, “but now you have to take me next week!”

Raf laughed heartily as he walked away. “That’s a deal!”

~~~~~

The door of Raf’s car was already open when his phone rang, and the grin on his face left no doubt as to who was calling.

“Happy Valentine’s day, meu amor!”

“Raf!” Carrie gushed. “I can’t believe you did all this!”

“I didn’t do enough. You like?”

“I love! Everything is beautiful, and right now, I’m the envy of everyone on the 9th floor!”

“I’m the only one they should be jealous of… because I have you.”

“Raf… I adore you! This Valentine’s Day is already better than all twenty-six I had before combined, and I haven’t even seen you yet!”

“We’ll fix that tonight.”

“I can’t wait! I’m dying for you to see the dress I bought!”

“Not as much as I’m dying to see it,” he assured as Carrie giggled.

“We’re staying at your place after our date, right? Will your roommate be home?”

“No. He will be with his girlfriend in Somerville, so it’s just you and me.”

“Good,” Carrie purred. “Then I can’t wait until you see what's under my dress, too.”

“Carrie, I’m about to go into my Vovo’s house… could we, uh, maybe save this conversation for later.”

“Sure! I don’t want Vovo seeing you in… that… condition!” She laughed, “But as much as I’m looking forward to the after-party, I can’t wait for our date!”

“You do love Oliveira’s….”

“I do!” she enthused. “But I love everything you planned, and I just want to be all around Boston with you on my arm. Nothing means more to me. I can’t wait for seven o’clock!”

“Neither can I, meu amor.”

Raf jumped out of the car as soon as he hung up. As much as he wanted to get to his apartment and sleep, he had one more stop to make. He barely stepped onto Vovo’s driveway when he heard Roberto Carlos's tunes blasting… even with the doors and windows closed. Once inside, he had to chuckle, seeing his grandmother singing Chegaste, the perfect duet.

“Vovo,” Raf smiled, “Jennifer Lopez is nothing compared to you!” Pulling the flowers out from behind his back, he wrapped his grandmother in a tight hug. “Feliz Dia dos Namorados, Vovo.”

“Ai meu anjo!” She cried. “You are so good to me!”

“I learned that from you because you’re so good to me.”

“And this year…you’re so happy, meu filho. No?”

The grin on his face answered for him, but he still replied. “I really am.”

“Good! Then you should eat! Come to the kitchen! I’ll feed you.”

“You would have fed me if I said I wasn’t happy, too,” he smiled.

“Of course!” Vovo insisted. “I would have fed you more!”

Exhausted, Raf hadn’t noticed the pleasant aroma that filled the home, but once in the kitchen, it was unmistakable.

“Vovo, what are you making? It smells delicious!”

“That’s because it is delicious, Rafa! When have I made you anything you didn’t enjoy?”

“Never!” He lifted the lid off a pot, and his mouth watered. “Is this?”

“Feijoada. But I’m also making steak, arroz e feijoa….”

“Are you having a party I didn’t know of?”

“It is a party. It’s not every day I get to meet the woman my grandson loves!”

Raf coughed on his coffee, and Vovo patted his back to assist him.

“Rafa, esta bem?”

“Yes, it just… went down the wrong way.”

“That’s because you’re tired, me anjo. Go home and get some rest. I’ll make sure everything is perfect for tonight!”

“Vovo… uh… when did I say we were coming here tonight?”

“When you said you were taking Carrie out for the best Brazillian food in Boston! I’m so touched that you want to introduce us on Valentine’s Day. Estou tao animado!”

“Yes… well, it is very exciting, Vovo….” he trailed.

“What time will you be here for dinner?”

“Well… Vovo… actually….” he stammered, looking around the kitchen overflowing with more food than three people could possibly eat, he didn’t have the heart to tell her no. “Uhm, Carrie is working today, so let me check the time with her, and I’ll let you know.”

“Maravilhoso! I am looking forward to it!”

~~~~~

Raf’s mind raced the whole ride home; his heart completely torn. He went to call Bryce for advice, but he remembered he was in surgery all day. All the plans he had meticulously made were unraveling before his eyes. With Carrie so excited, the thought of disappointing her made his stomach churn. He couldn’t let that happen. But Vovo was so happy and working so hard. How could he hurt her? He let out a frustrated sigh as he entered his apartment, plopping down on the couch as soon as he walked in. He was determined to figure something out, but the overnight shift caught up to him, and the only thing that came to him was sleep. Hours later, he woke with a startle when a phone call woke him.

“Oh, shit!” He looked at his watch and panicked. He had less than one hour to get Carrie. Flying into the shower to begin getting ready, he didn’t even recall his dilemma. But on the drive to pick up Carrie, it all came back to him.

This would explain why he found himself standing on the steps to her apartment, sweating, despite the cold temperature. Anxious, even though he had been looking forward to this night for months. And full of dread… because there was no good way to work this out. But when Carrie opened the door, his mind settled for a moment.

He loved Carrie for her heart, but right now, he was reminded that the outside was every bit as beautiful as the inside. Her chestnut brown hair flowed over her delicate shoulders, and her red lips were the same hue as her dress. But it was her eyes that won him over, those big brown eyes that had held him captive from the moment they met. If Rafael Aveiro had any problems at that moment, they were all washed away.

“Wow…” he gasped as he took her hand. “You look…. You look….”

Carrie gently spun around, allowing the red silk skirt to swirl all around her before falling into his arms.

“Please tell me that loss of words is because you’re overwhelmed with joy, not that you hope I’ll be heading back inside to change,” she giggled.

“I wouldn’t allow it!” He grinned, “You are perfection and… wow… you’re my date!”

“All night long,” she beamed…. and with her words, his dilemma came rushing back. There was no hiding it; the worry was etched on his face.

“Raf?” Carrie asked, a worry line forming between her brows. “Did I say something wrong?”

He startled at the concerned expression on her face; he didn’t take months to plan this night for her to look that way.

“No! My love, not at all,” he pulled her into his arms for a warm embrace, “it’s just….”

Carrie pulled back just a bit and stared into his eyes. “Just?”

“I’m afraid I have to start our date by doing something that will break my Vovo’s heart.”

“What?” Carrie asked. “I don’t understand. Does she not want you to be with me?”

“Quite the contrary….”

Raf conveyed the story. Explaining how the confusion began and that he had only learned of the misunderstanding earlier that day. He described Vovo’s kitchen, overflowing with food, and how excited she had been. But, she’d understand, he assured. He’d explain, even at this later hour, that it was a misunderstanding… even though it broke his heart.

When he finished speaking, he found Carrie standing before him, her arms firmly crossed in front of her chest.

“Rafael,” she said sternly. “There is only one way to rectify this situation, and it is not canceling with Vovo; it’s canceling our reservation at Oliveira’s.”

“It… what? But you’ve been looking forward to our date?”

“Of course I do!” she insisted. “But I want the best Brazillian food in Boston, and by your own word, the only place to get that is in your Vovo’s dining room.”

“You mean, you want to go to Vovo’s? For our Valentine's Day date?”

“Raf, I’d be honored… as long as it’s all right with you. I know being introduced to your family is a big deal in your culture, and if you’re not ready to take that step with me, I understand. But otherwise….”

Carrie’s words were stopped, replaced by a little squeal as Raf spun her around in his arms.

“Are you kidding me? I don’t know what I was thinking; this is the perfect Valentine’s Day, after all. You are the love of my life, and it would be my honor to introduce you to my grandmother… on this… the holiday devoted to you.”

“Would you stop?” She laughed, reaching into his pants pocket to pull out his phone. “Then you better call the restaurant… you have a reservation to cancel. And make it quick!”

“Why?”

“Because we have to stop at the bakery. I’m not showing up at your grandmother’s house empty-handed.”

She didn’t get to say another word as Raf’s lips captured hers.

“Happy Valentine's Day, meu amor. The first of many more to come.”

Permatags: @a-crepusculo @animesuck3r @annoyingmillenialnewbie @crazy-loca-blog @differenttyphoonwerewolf @doriopenheart @fayeswiftie @gryffindordaughterofathena @genevievemd @inlocusmads @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kingliam2019 @liaromancewriter @lucy-268 @onikalover @openheartforeverinmyheart @potionsprefect @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @secretaryunpaid @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction @jerzwriter-reblogs-asks @openheartfanfics @choicesficwriterscreations

OH Only: @annfg8 @binny1985 @coffeeheartaddict2 @mysticalgalaxysstuff @ofmischiefandmedicine @peonierose @youlookappropriate

#choices fanfic #open heart choices #choices open heart #rafael aveiro #raf aveiro x f!mc #playchoices fanfic #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #valentine's day

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moodmusicmonday · 1 year

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This week's playlist may be short, but it's mighty! Check out the songs above, and the story/creator info below!

As always, thank you all for your support. Whether you submit songs, like, signal boost or even just lurk, we are so happy and grateful to have you here! 💜

@ao719

"Don't Hold Me" - Dean Lewis; ...Sometimes Not, Part 6 (TRR; Liam x f!OC)

@bebepac

"Rendezvous" - Little Mix; Moonlight Rendezvous (TRR; No Pairing)

@cariantha

"Wish You The Best" - Lewis Capaldi; Anytime I Want (OH; Rafael x f!MC, Ethan x f!MC)

"Cruel Summer" - Blestenation Mix; Spring Break WIP (OH; Ethan x f!MC)

Tags: @21-wishes @alj4890 @ao719 @aussiegurl234 @axwalker @bebepac @burnsoslow @cariantha @charlotteg234 @chemist-ana @choicesmonthlychallenge @foreverethereal123 @issabees @karahalloway @kat-tia801 @lovingchoices14 @marshmallowsaremyfavorite @neotericthemis @nestledonthaveone @peonierose @phoenixrising0308 @queenrileyrose @quixoticdreamer16 @sfb123 @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @twinkleallnight @txemrn @walkerdrakewalker @zaffrenotes

#Spotify #mood music monday #moodmusicmonday #choices mmm #choices fandom #choices fanfic #choices mood music monday #choices music inspo #music inspo

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choicesficwriterscreations · 11 months

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We Belong Together Chapter 9 - The Wedding Part 1

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Rafael Aveiro x F!MC Author: @rafasgirl23415

#choices fanfic #open heart #rafael aveiro #rafael avairo x f!mc #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #playchoices #playchoices fanfic

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lsvdw-blog · 2 years

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Drained (3/?)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x f!MC

Word Count: 2.3k

Warnings; Rating: Angst; General

Premise: Serena makes moves and Ethan finds out.

Author’s Note: I'm sorry ☠️ I hope you enjoy and thank you for reading 💖 **HSM reference included

Serena comes to a halt in the middle of a crosswalk. Rebecca continues to lay out the terms of the contract, but time stands still as Serena drones out, shocked.

An offer.

This is exactly what she wanted. A dream come true for her younger self.

So why does she feel so conflicted?

~~~~~~

Serena hangs up the phone just as she’s stepping into her apartment, all of her roommates, along with Bryce and Rafael, are gathered in the living room, watching a movie.

She stands at the edge, absorbing the laughter and camaraderie filling the space. Silently taking in what she would be giving up.

Although becoming Head of the Diagnostics Team has been far from what she expected, she’s comfortable here — it’s familiar. She knows the ins and outs of Edenbrook now, a far cry from the intern that got lost in the hallways. She has an incredible friend group that would drop everything if she needed them. She knows the language, the culture, the unspoken rules and etiquette.

She’d go from a three hour flight home to being across the ocean. She’d miss birthdays, holidays, and impromptu get-togethers. She'd miss the mundane things: days out in Boston Common, going on shopping trips with the girls, getting lost in the farmer's markets.

But this was something she had wanted her entire life. What she’d worked nearly a decade for.

By everyone else’s standards, for anyone on the outside looking in, she’s flourished in her three and half years at Edenbrook. Yet she feels like a trained falcon: tethered and only able to fly when told how high and how far.

She owes it to herself to make her dream a reality, to spread her wings, and not only fly, but soar.

Her eyes grow misty the longer she stands there, contemplating all of the things that would change. It isn’t until she’s deep in her spiral that Elijah calls out her name.

“Serena, are you okay?”

The backlight from the television reflects the tears in her eyes. “I’m really gonna miss you guys.”

Understandably, she’s met with a room full of confused expressions. While they know about her struggles as Head of the Diagnostics Team, they don’t know about the events of the last forty-eight hours.

Serena walks towards them, plopping down in the middle of the floor, and begins to fill them in.

By that night, Serena had signed a year-long contract, shipping out in six weeks.

~~~~~~

The next few days are a blur: making phone calls to potential movers and storage unit companies and having conversations with her new team.

It seems as though Ethan finally took the hint that she wanted space. His interactions are gentle, but few and far in between.

Serena knows it’s not fair to keep him in the dark, but she’s still too hurt and overwhelmed to bring herself to do the right thing.

Ethan interprets her space as her just needing to work through it first, that she’d be ready to talk soon.

How wrong he was.

~~~~~~

“Great work today, Carrick. There might be some hope left for you after all.”

Tobias chuckles.

“Gotta keep the lead on her toes!” He does a little boxing move, causing Serena to laugh. “This will be my team before you know it.”

Serena sobers at that comment, remembering the big news she has yet to share with anyone other than her family and roommates.

Tobias notices the sudden change in energy, a cloud of sadness settling over them.

“Tobias… take a seat. There’s something we need to discuss.”

His brows furrow and his head tilts to the side in confusion as they both take a seat at the round table. Serena huffs out a long breath, sitting with her back ramrod straight, hands clasped in front of her. Any and all traces of joviality are gone.

“This should be your team."

“Serena, I was just kidding. You know I respect you as Hea—”

“I know. This has nothing to do with that. I wasn't ready then and I'm not ready now."

“You’re doing a fanta—”

Serena's hand shoots up to interrupt him.

“It's okay. I know you see the way I’m being treated and have heard some… not very nice things said about me.”

“Well, yeah, but they’re all just boomers who have a stick wedged so far up their asses that they’ve forgotten what it’s like to be a decent human being.”

Serena snorts. “While that may be true, you know it’s more than that.”

Tobias leans forward, placing a hand over Serena’s that she hasn't stopped wringing.

He looks at her earnestly. “You are doing an amazing job. And when have you ever cared what other people think? I say fuck ‘em.”

“If only it were that easy.”

She brings a hand out from under his, placing it on top.

“It has been made very clear, time and time again, that I am not wanted here.”

“That’s not tru—”

“I’ve accepted another position.”

Tobias blinks rapidly at Serena.

“With Médecins Sans Frontières.”

His jaw goes slack.

“In Myanmar.”

At this, Tobias’ eyes look like they’re about ready to pop out of his head.

“No.”

“What?”

“I reject this.”

“Tobias… This is something I need to do.”

“You’re an invaluable member of this hospital! Anyone who means anything knows that — I know that, the DT knows that, the Chief—”

At that, Serena scoffs and rolls her eyes.

“No, he doesn’t.”

“What are you ta—”

“I’ve already signed the contract. I’ll deploy in five weeks.”

“What?”

A booming voice echoes around the room. Serena jumps backwards, extricating her hands from Tobias’, and looks at the floor.

This is so not the way I wanted to tell him.

Serena gives Tobias a curt nod, letting him know that it’s okay for him to leave the room.

“Page me if you need anything,” he whispers before exiting.

“Serena, what the hell is going on?”

“Ethan, sit down.”

“No! I’m not going to ‘sit down.’ Tell me what’s going on right now.”

Serena sighs and pinches the bridge of her nose. “I’ve accepted a position with Médecins Sans Frontières in Myanmar. I start in five weeks, so you can count this as my four week notice.”

“Is this one of those pranks from social media that I don’t understand?”

“Do I look like I’m joking?”

“Well, you must be. You were just made Head of the Diagnostics Team! This is your dream job.”

“It was. It’s not anymore.”

“Oh, but moving to Myanmar is?!”

Serena gets out of her chair. “You’re missing the point.”

“Then enlighten me!”

Ethan knows he needs to get a grip and control his emotions, but the utter fear coursing through him is paralyzing.

“I have been so busy supporting you in the last three years that I lost sight of myself.

“And I’m not saying it’s your fault, it’s not, I happily put you first. I wanted to put you first. With Naveen, Louise, Edenbrook possibly shutting down, everything.

“But I had always dreamed of leaving our planet a better place than we’d found it. Of traveling the world while volunteering with different organizations… Did you even know that?" Serena whispers.

“You’re making a difference here.”

Serena shakes her head furiously. “It’s not the same! Life kept getting in the way and I lost myself in the process, don't you see?!”

“So what?! You felt sorry for me, is that it?! You saw me as some pet project — someone you could fix and mold into your perfect vision, so you stayed. My savior."

The word drips with disdain, mockery, disgust.

Ethan expects Serena to yell obscenities at him, but when she speaks, eyes locked on his, she's deathly calm.

Which causes Ethan to become even more frantic.

"I never wanted to save you. You were never broken, not to me. The things you see as flawed and jagged all fit together perfectly to create you.

"'The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.' And you, as a whole, as your entire being, is the man I fell in love with.

"But my love for you has nothing to do with the struggles I've faced in my short tenure as lead.

"I've done my absolute best to carry this team to new heights, to carry on the legacy and the mission. But it's become practically impossible to do when everyone in this hospital constantly undermines me, questions my competence, and makes bets on when I'll fail."

"Not everyone. I don't—"

Ethan is interrupted by a barking laugh of disbelief.

"It seems you've already forgotten, so let me remind you."

~ 2 Months Ago ~

Serena exhaustedly walks through the door of Ethan’s apartment, the tail-wagging greeting of Jenner always a welcome, and much needed, dose of serotonin.

Ethan follows closely behind the golden retriever, greeting Serena with a lopsided grin and kiss.

They have a nightly routine whenever she stays over, which is more often than not nowadays, and tonight is no different.

Ethan notices that Serena is quieter than usual as they go through their ritual. He doesn’t bring it up, but keeps a close eye on her, ready to talk if and when she feels ready.

Cuddled up on the couch after dinner, watching some brain-numbing show, is when Serena decides it's a good time. She pushes herself off of Ethan’s chest and sits criss-cross applesauce as she turns to face him. Her hands are in her lap, fidgeting in nervousness, internally trying to hype herself up.

Ethan places one hand over hers in a reassuring gesture, patiently waiting for her to speak.

“I’ve, uh—” Serena clears her throat. “I’ve been having some management challenges. Senior personnel in other departments have created a hostile work environment that isn’t letting me adequately step into the role as Head of the Diagnostics Team.

“There is no level of trust and this is shown day in and day out, in any decisions I make; I receive constant pushback, refusal to cooperate, and at times, am completely ignored.”

Serena’s heart is hammering in her chest and her palms are sweaty as she waits with bated breath for Ethan’s response.

“Tension is never one-sided. Be careful and cognizant of how you are treating others as well.”

Serena is taken aback. “That’s not me and you know it. There was practically no handover period, let alone adequate training. I was left to my own devices. Everyone assumed I would ‘figure it out,’ but it seems to have been forgotten by literally everyone that I don’t have anything to base this on in order to ‘figure it out!’”

Ethan sighs and pinches the bridge of his nose. “Is that what this is about? I can’t just give you handouts because you’re my girlfriend.”

“When have I ever asked you for a ‘handout?’” Serena stands from her spot on the couch. “Why are you being so unsupportive? Don’t join the ranks of the people who think I slept my way to the top,” Serena says, a challenge in her tone.

Ethan is stunned into silence, bewilderment in his eyes.

The tension between them fills the penthouse, engulfing them in a silent standoff, neither backing down.

Until Ethan says something that completely breaks Serena’s resolve.

“Maybe you’re not mature enough to handle this yet. Perhaps I should have given the team to Tobias.”

Ethan’s statement is coming from a place of hurt, her previous flippant remark cutting deep, as if his greatest fear concerning their relationship is becoming a reality. But it is also coming from a place of mentorship, invoking the “tough love” tactic he is so renowned for. The tone reminiscent of the very first day they met, following the thoracotomy in the waiting area.

Tough love that pushes her to be better, to reach the staggering heights he knows she’s capable of, to fulfill her full potential.

But all Serena wishes for is the floor to open up and swallow her whole. She wishes she hadn’t said anything at all, that there was a time machine that would take her back. Because how foolish of her to assume that Ethan could set aside his role as Chief to be the loving and supportive boyfriend she needed, not only in this moment, but also in the past four months.

"You single-handedly tore a wound that I've been bleeding from ever since. I wasn’t confiding in you as Dr. Harlow; I was confiding in you as Serena. As a woman who, in that moment, needed the man she loved to love her.

Ethan is utterly horrified by the conversation from a couple months back and he grows ever more appalled with himself as Serena continues to put her feelings into words — yes, taking over as Chief was a bigger task than he had anticipated, but how could he not have noticed her cries for help?

*"What about us?"

Of all the thoughts and emotions swirling within him, this is the only one Ethan cares about right now.

“What about everything we’ve been through?” Ethan presses.

"You told me that you don't need me to take care of you. I realize now that I threw myself on the fire to keep you warm, but you'd say that you never asked me to. So I'll keep myself warm from now on."

“What am I supposed to do? I don’t want to lose you.”*

The words come out jumbled, rushed beyond measure, as if they'd be lost to time forever if Ethan didn't get them out right that instant.

His heart is beating like a hummingbird's wings, but it stops dead in the next second.

"You've been too distracted to realize that you've already lost me a long time ago.

But you got what you wanted after all — this is Tobias' team now.”

#ethan ramsey #ethan x mc #ethan ramsey x mc #open heart #playchoices #choices open heart #open heart fanfiction #ethan ramsey open heart #dr ethan ramsey #dr. ethan ramsey #ethan fic

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cariantha · 1 year

Text

Anytime I Want

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Rafael Aveiro x F!MC; Ethan Ramsey x F!MC Rating: General Warning: None Category: Angsty Fluff, AU Word count: 1.5K Summary: A rewrite of the final scenes from the movie Sweet Home Alabama. A/N: Submitted for the @choicesprompts Rewrite Challenge. Borrowed dialogue has been bolded.

“There is something special about a wedding in a place like this. The romance is…undeniable,” Ethan observed.

Walking back to the hotel hand in hand, they passed the spot where Ines and Angie exchanged vows earlier in the day.

“If we ever got married, I’d want something like this. Small and intimate. Just our closest friends and family,” Ethan shared.

Sawyer looked at him in shock. “Since when do you want to get married?”

“I said ‘if,’” Ethan clarified, squeezing her hand. “Suppose I was coming around to the idea…is marriage something you see in our future? Is that something you want?”

“I know your opinions on the matter, so I would never force it…but, honestly? Yes. That would make me very happy,” she looped her arm through his and leaned into him.

Ethan gazed contemplatively out at the ocean.

With a kiss to his arm, she continued, “You want to know why?”

"Why?" he asked, genuinely curious, as he looked into her eyes.

“So I can kiss you anytime I want. No more hiding. No more pretending. No more sneaking off.”

One year later…

Naveen made his way to the end of the fishing dock, where Ethan was sitting in an Adirondack chair, nursing a beer and staring out at the water. Dark clouds formed on the horizon, turning the sky above them gray.

“Are you sure you won’t change your mind, Ethan?” he asked.

“I won’t.”

Frustrated, Naveen sighed. “You know, Ethan, you’re like a son to me and I love you, but sometimes I just want to smack you upside the head.”

“She made her decision, Naveen. She’s moved on. She’s happy now. That’s all I ever wanted for her,” Ethan said in response.

Giving his shoulder a fatherly squeeze, Naveen countered, “For someone who’s been holding on so hard, you’re pretty quick to let it go.”

“Dammit, Naveen! You are the one who taught me to ‘control what I can control.’ I can’t control her any more than I can control the weather,” Ethan retorted as lightning flashed in the distance.

“You’re right, son. She controls her own destiny. But don’t you think she deserves all the facts? The truth?”

Ethan took a swig from the bottle and looked back out at the choppy lake water, having nothing more to say.

<><><><><><><><><><>

Sawyer gazed vacantly into the full-length mirror as her maid of honor fastened the last of the delicate pearl buttons on the back of her wedding dress.

“It’s just nerves, you’re doing the right thing,” Sienna spoke softly.

Sawyer swallowed hard. “Am I?”

“Sawyer, Raf adores you. He will make you happy,” she assured her friend with a hug from behind.

A knock at the door interrupted them. Popping her head in, Jackie held out a small package.

“Sawyer? This was just delivered for you. And Sienna? Do you know where the shoes for the bridesmaids are? We can’t find them anywhere.”

Sienna rolled her eyes. “I’ll be back in a little bit to check on you.”

Alone for the first time in hours, Sawyer carefully inspected the package, finding a small jewelry box and a handwritten note inside. Opening the velvet box revealed a pair of exquisite sapphire earrings, ones that she recognized immediately. Sawyer had stopped many times to admire the set in the window of the jewelry store next door to Derry's. The jewels were a unique shade of icy blue, the same color as Ethan's eyes.

Unfolding the note, tears welled up in her eyes when she recognized the familiar handwriting.

A short while later, Sawyer walked arm in arm with her father down the aisle. When she saw her beaming groom, her eyes began to glisten with unshed tears. The tears were not of joy or happiness, as one might expect, but rather of fear and regret.

At the altar, her father kissed her cheek and Sienna reached for her bouquet. Rafael took her hands into his and gave them a gentle squeeze. But his smile faded as he felt how badly they were trembling.

The minister started to speak, and Sawyer looked up at Rafael. Her eyes filled with sorrow as she shook her head.

“I’m sorry,” she uttered, barely above a whisper.

He tilted his head in concern.

“Raf? You don’t want to marry me.”

“I don’t?” his face twisted in confusion as the minister paused his remarks.

“No. No, you don’t. Not really. See, the truth is, I gave my heart away a long time ago. My whole heart. And I never really got it back. I don’t even know what else to say, but I’m sorry. I can’t marry you. And you shouldn’t want to marry me,” Sawyer cried.

Rafael let go of her hands and took a step back. “Wow,” he looked at her incredulously.

“Raf, we’ve been through so much together…something life-changing that connected us forever. And I love you. I always will. But I’m still in love with someone else. I-I’m so sorry,” she confessed.

Rafael had no words, so he just nodded his head as his grandmother hurried to his side.

“Como você ousa tirar vantagem do meu neto... você... você…” she pointed her finger and yelled.

“Vovo, stop. Let’s just go,” Rafael took her arm and escorted her through the chapel to a side door.

Casting dirty looks and whispering unkindly, Rafael’s family and neighborhood friends left through the back doors. Meanwhile, Sawyer’s family lingered and looked at each other in disbelief.

Her friends rushed to her side, offering hugs and words of encouragement. Sienna gave Sawyer a handkerchief to wipe her tears, and as her vision cleared, Sawyer saw Naveen. She apologized as she pushed past several family members to get to him.

Naveen saw her coming, determination evident in her eyes.

“Do you know wh-?”

Before she could finish asking her question, Naveen took her hand and folded his car keys into it.

“The cabin.”

Sawyer pecked him on the cheek before dashing off to the parking lot.

<><><><><><><><><><>

A few more empty bottles were scattered around Ethan's chair as he sat in the same spot at the end of the old dock. The storm clouds had dispersed, and the setting sun now cast a warm orange hue across the lake.

Sawyer took off her high heels, gathered up the hem of her wedding gown, and walked barefoot towards him. A creak of aged wood beneath her feet caused him to turn and look.

He had been right. She was absolutely stunning, a vision in all white, save for the light blue gems that sparkled in the remaining light of day.

“Nice dress. Where’s your husband?” Ethan stood to ask.

“I’m looking at him,” she said, taking a hesitant step forward, “...or my partner, boyfriend, lover…you can be whatever you want to be, as long as you’ll be mine.”

Nearly closing the gap between them, Ethan searched her eyes. “You’d want to marry me? Even after everything I’ve put you through? Why?”

“I’ve told you before…so I can kiss you anytime I want.” Sawyer lunged forward and grabbed the back of his head, pulling him into a deep and passionate kiss. She giggled as Ethan lifted her off the ground and spun her around, punctuating their reunion with another fervent kiss.

Two weeks later…

The sign on the front door of Donahue’s said they were closed for a special event. Close friends and family who gathered inside hung the last of the decorations. Streamers, balloons and honeycomb paper bells hung from walls and light fixtures. Bowls that were normally filled with pretzels, now filled with pastel-colored Jordan almonds. A couple fresh floral arrangements sat at either end of the bar top, and in the back corner, a 3-tiered cake sat in the middle of a pool table draped with a linen tablecloth.

The front door burst open, and the startled crowd turned to see Ethan carrying Sawyer bridal style over the threshold.

Cupping his hands around his mouth, Bryce announced the happy couple. “Ladies and gentlemen, Mrs. and Mr. Ethan Ramsey!”

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics @potionsprefect @jamespotterthefirst @annfg8 @peonierose @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @jerzwriter @quixoticdreamer16 @mysticalgalaxysstuff @inlocusmads @txemrn @trappedinfanfiction @mvalentine @takemyopenheart @openheartforeverinmyheart @doriopenheart @coffeeheartaddict2 @genevievemd @starrystarrytrouble @hopelessromantic1352 @kyra75 @lsvdw-blog @rookiemartin @headoverheelsforramsey

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coffeeheartaddict2 · 7 months

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When Life has other plans 13/16

Begin Again

Book: Open Heart (AU)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC Casey Valentine

Category: angsty fluff with a side of smut

Rating: Mature

Warnings: Language, sexual content, mentions of bio attack and mental illness

Word count: 3511

Summary: The fallout from the attack. Ethan and Casey start exploring what could be, funeral for Bobby and Danny. Ethan and Tobias open a dialogue and both have hopes of reconciliation. June starts to evaluate her position at Edenbrook and the team.

Disclaimer: characters belong to Pixelberry

Authors note: We are post attack now, there is still some angsty moments but nowhere near as intense as the attack. And that also means a strong smell of the happy ending.

🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼

It was the day after the attack. The hospital was slowly coming back to normal function after being shut down after the attack. It all looked normal but there was an air of sadness, shock and anguish that could not be ignored. Those directly involved with the discovery of the cure and the staff who provided support to Danny and Raf whilst they were in the coma were encouraged to have the day off and were offered counselling to work through any grief and any mental anguish that they have endured. This would also be offered to the hospital as a whole but the priority was those who were exposed the most.

Ethan knew he should not have been there. He went home and fell into a deep and exhausted sleep but he awoke with a nightmare of Casey dying in his arms. He could not get back to sleep so he went and sat in her room, watching her to reaffirm to himself that she did make it. Casey woke up and was surprised to see Ethan. He breathed a sigh of relief when she woke up. He asked how she slept and informed her that Rafael was improving.

He moved closer to her and squeezed her hand. Casey smiled weakly.

“Did you sleep well?”

“No, yes, I did fall into a sleep as I was exhausted from then I had a nightmare…” he takes another breath before continuing. “After that I ha hi d to come and see you, to see for myself that you did make it.”

“I made it Ethan, I am alive, yes it was traumatic, but I am here.” Adamantly stated Casey. Ethan leaned over and kissed the top of her head.

“As much as I am liking the visit, head home, rest, I am not going anywhere.” Ethan reluctantly left. He knew Casey was right but he could not help but worry. He stopped off at Derry’s to buy a coffee and went home. He emailed Naveen. Even though he and Casey had not discussed being in the open and how that would look but he felt it imperative that he get the ball rolling.

To Naveen,

I am emailing you to advise that I am in a relationship with Dr Casey Valentine. I have made her aware of my intent of being open about this and we will of course discuss in due course but I wanted to let you know so that we can get the ball rolling.

Regards

Dr Ethan Ramsey.

When Naveen had read the email he could not help but feel happy for his mentee. He knew that both him and Casey were more than capable of working well together, no matter what their relationship circumstances happened to be so he was happy if reporting lines stayed the same but at the end of the day he knew that call would be made by HR but he was hopeful that there would be a solution.

Casey’s physical condition improved over the following week. Her discharge day was the day of the funeral for Bobby and Danny. It was bittersweet. Casey was thankful that a cure was found and that she survived but there was the questions of why me, how is it fair? Going around in her head. Medical leave from work was approved and any counselling she knew would be taken care of however a part of her wanted to seek some type of normalcy. She went to the funeral, hoping it would give closure. In a way it did but she was unable to feel. She felt numb, cut off, the feeling was disconcerting. She felt so disconnected that she barely noticed that the wake was nearly over. Ethan came over to Casey and gave her a hug. “Come on, let’s go.”

He walked her to his car and they drove off.

“How does the weather know?”

“How does the weather know what Casey?”

“How did it know that today was a day of grey and misery?”

Ethan did not know what to say. He had intended to drive her home but at this point changed his mind, he was going to bring her to his.

It was not until they pulled up at Ethan’s building that she realized. They made their way to his apartment. He poured himself a glass of scotch and offered one to Casey which she accepted.

“I know that you must be going through so much. You seem, almost distant..”

“I am numb, numb and disconnected. I thought the funeral would give me a sense of closure, but I have felt so disconnected from anything…”

He kisses her, it was emotion charged. It caught Casey off guard but she returned the kiss. The kisses got more emotionally charged and heated. Ethan pulled away slightly, he rubbed his thumb along her jawbone.

“We don’t need to go any further tonight”

“I know Ethan, but I want to.”

She kisses him. Hungrily. He ran his hands down her side, reacquainting himself with her curves. He unzips her dress and discards it. He looks at her underwear. He kisses her gently on the lips before kissing the column of her neck. He tweaks her hardened nipples through her bra, eliciting a moan from Casey. He unhooks her bra and lavishes attention on her breasts. Casey feels even more aroused. She knew she was drenched. His hand made its way between her legs. He could feel how wet she was. He let out a groan and laid waist to her underwear. He ran a finger around her clit. Casey moaned as she bucked her hips. As much as Ethan wanted to fuck her pain away, he also wanted to savour this night. He positioned himself between her legs. He kissed the inside of her thigh, slowly. Casey quivered in anticipation and he ran his tongue around her clit. Again she moaned and bucked her hips. Ethan then ran his tongue through her folds before entering. He continued to eat her out, being guided by her moans and screams. He worked his way back up to her clit and inserted two fingers.

“Fuck…” she screamed, as he hit that spot from the get go. He moved his other hand up to her breast and massaged it. Casey could not recall when she last felt so much sensory overload. She was fast hurtling towards the precipice of what felt like an intense orgasm. She clenched his fingers and he knew she was close. He pumped her harder and sucked a little harder. Casey fell, screaming. He helped her ride it out. Casey felt like she was floating. He kissed her, the taste of her in his mouth was intoxicating. He got up and picked her up, he took her to his bedroom. He placed her down and she kissed him again, this time removing his clothing. She ran her hands along his hardened cock. He hissed. She then walked backwards towards his bed. They kiss again and Casey moves so that she is straddling him. He leans over to his top drawer and grabs a condom. He puts it on and then Casey slowly works her way down. It did not take long for her body to readjust to his size. Once he was fully sheathed she started to rock her hips. He thrust up causing her to moan. She rode him, harder than what she would have liked to have started with but the intensity of the previous orgasm is what she was chasing. Ethan kept pace, enjoying being fully inside her for real and not just in his lust fueled thoughts. He sucked her nipples which caused her to yell “fuck”. Before long Casey could feel she was getting close. Ethan could feel it too and with his thumb, massaged her clit. The sensation had Casey hurtling to again another intense orgasm. She fell and her climax triggered Ethan’s. After a few minutes she eased herself off and cuddled into Ethan. Casey then started to cry. She had wanted to all day, all week even but she could not, no matter how hard she tried. Ethan let her cry, assuring her that she was ok, and to let it all out. She cried herself to sleep. Ethan fell asleep not long after. He was relieved that Casey was able to let her emotions out and that she was in his arms.

Ethan awoke first the next morning. He tried to gently get out of bed but Casey started to stir.

“I did not mean to wake you” he said gently.

“I was waking up, it’s fine, I had no nightmare last night, plus with our activities, I actually feel rested.

Ethan smiled.

“I have a late start today but did you want to stay here, however long you feel you need?”

Casey stretched whilst she thought about it. Either staying here or at her apartment would mean long hours alone but decided here. After last night she knew she would not be treated like a fragile object and that is what she needed.

“I would like to stay here, but I will need some clothes.”

Ethan squeezed her hand.

“I can drop you to yours on my way to work.” He leaves the room and comes back with a key ring. This is so you can get back into the apartment and come and go as needed.”

Casey smiled. “Thank you Ethan.”

Ethan went to make breakfast while Casey had a shower. She joined Ethan for breakfast and he dropped her at her apartment. She made her way to her room and got changed first. She then packed a bag of clothes to take with her. She then went back to Ethan’s. She used the time alone to research the therapists she had the details of and booked one and had her first appointment a few days later.

She had a nap and woke with a start. It took her awhile to gain her bearings as to where she was. Just then there was a sound of a door opening. Casey got scared until she heard Ethan call out. She made her way to the living area. He could see she was scared.

“I had a nap and I woke with a start and I had only just got my bearings when you came back.”

He gave her a hug and kissed the top of his head.

“Everything is ok, Casey” he whispered. She went to pour them both some drinks whilst Ethan cooked dinner.

They enjoyed their meal and sat on the couch after dinner.

Casey told him how she was going to start therapy. Ethan was relieved she was going to seek professional help. He wanted to start a discussion around what a relationship would look like when she returned to work but he also wanted to savour this time also. Casey was relieved that she knew where she stood in relation to Ethan but she did not want to think too much on it right now. If she was being honest, she wanted to be fucked into oblivion again. The pleasant memories of last night came flooding back and she felt the familiar sensation at her core. She kissed Ethan, gently at first then more passionately. She then moved his hand to her centre.

“I know there are better coping mechanisms but I need you to fuck me.” She whispered in his ear. As much as Casey was right, there were more healthier ways to cope, he could not help but feel aroused so he obliged, as in a way he felt it would help make up for lost time.

They went several intense rounds, Casey fell into a blissful sleep and Ethan followed not long after. For nearly a fortnight it was a pattern that would be followed, work, dinner and mind blowing sex. After a couple of therapy sessions, Casey was given some more coping strategies which helped her not needing to use sex as a crutch. Casey was also starting to miss her friends also. Ethan understood but told Casey she was welcome to come over any time.

After nearly three weeks Casey returned to her apartment. She was used to the alone time whilst she was at Ethan’s but here it felt eerie. She knew that anyone on the night shift would be sleeping and that she was not alone but it was disconcerting.

Meanwhile back at Edenbrook Ethan was missing Casey, not only personally but professionally. He hoped she would be back at work soon, even if it was only part time. He was making his way back to the office when a familiar voice called out.

“Ethan, wait up” called out Tobias.

Ethan looked at his former friend perplexed.

“What are you doing here?”

“Meeting with the board, we will be doing research into the cure for the toxin and publishing it.”

“Congratulations” said Ethan. “Maybe even other toxins could be treated with this cure too.”

“Yeah? Maybe, hey listen, did you want to grab a coffee and catch up?”

Ethan looked at his watch, he had nothing on so he agreed. He suggested Derry Roasters.” Tobias agreed. They had coffee there before, a long time ago, an olive branch had been offered but it was declined and the memories of that haunted Tobias still but they were both older now and he hoped that they could put away the ghosts of their past.

They ordered their coffees and snacks and sat down. Tobias enquired as to how Casey and Raf were going, the team, and how Ethan was going with everything. Ethan was surprised when Tobias was not surprised when he stated that he was seeing Casey.

“You had been the talk of the post hospital grapevine, June for awhile was possessed on finding out the deal with you both but there was some interactions and dare I say an over protective posture that I had never seen from you that made me question the more scandalous rumours but seeing you with Casey that night solidified that any feelings were genuine.” Said Tobias.

“Well there’s truth to the rumours in that we did sleep together whilst she was in her intern year but it had nothing to do with the competition.”

“I figured that much, you have never been one for sexual favours, let alone entering into a relationship easily so she must be someone special.”

“She is, she helped me with Naveen, hell, she even did not give up on him when I did, we have had a rough patch but I feel we have come out the other side.”

Tobias was happy to hear this. He saw first hand how a reluctance in romantic relationships not only affected what was a good relationship but also his and Ethan’s friendship. Tobias wanted to chat further but he had to get back to work and so did Ethan.

“Well it was good to catch up bu…I mean Ethan. We must do so again.”

“I would very much like that, Tobias.”

Tobias could not believe how easy it was to slip back at calling Ethan buddy like he did for nearly three quarters of medical school and he was hopeful they could reconcile. Ethan too was optimistic, he had missed Tobias’s friendship a lot over the past 13 or so years and he hoped they could be friends again now.

A few days later Casey was again home alone, therapy had been going well and she was now eager to go back to work but the memories of what happened and who the hospital lost was haunting her. She had not even brought herself to meet Ethan at the hospital but little did she know that she was going to push herself out of her comfort zone. There was a knock at the door. It was Farley, their landlord. He had come with a sweet smelling bunch of flowers. She was mid thanking him when she noticed a mark on his wrist that he kept scratching. She asked him what was up, he said not much, the mark had been there for a bit but he was over his eyes seeing his gaming screen too bright. When questioned as to why he had not seen anyone about it, he stated that the deductible was too low. Casey stated that she worked as apart of a team that could do it pro bono. Farley was intrigued and she said “go get a coat, I will take you to the free clinic at Edenbrook and go from there.” Casey was now terrified but she knew that if she did nothing, neither would Farley. She found her new pink and grey sweater dress that Ethan had purchased and her leggings and met Farley. They made their way to Edenbrook and the free clinic.

“So far so good” Casey thinks to herself. They are met by Jackie and she takes them both in and immediately she notices Farley’s reaction to the light. Casey shows Jackie the rash and they agree he needs to be admitted. Casey took over from there stating that she would put him under the team.

Casey and Farley made their way to the team office. She was nervous for multiple reasons but ensuring something was done to get Farley healthy again was helping her keep it together.

They came to the office. Ethan looks up and is surprised to see Casey. He recognised the outfit he bought for her, and it looked better on her than what he thought. He decided to stay seated while acassy told him about what was going on. Ethan agreed to take Farley on and he paiged Sarah to take him to the patient room.

“Thanks Ethan, if I did not bring him he would have done nothing.”

He noted the fear in her voice.

“And how are you Casey, this is the first time you have been here since the attack.”

Casey took a breath. “I am keeping it together, ensuring Farley got some care has helped me keep it together. I am grateful for the push.”

Ethan nodded. They had not yet spoken how their relationship would look like at work so he gave her hand a gentle squeeze. Casey smiled weakly and could see the conflicted desire swirling in Ethan’s eyes.

“I’ll come over later” she said and Ethan stated

“Don’t you dare change that outfit.”

Casey blushed and took her leave.

Meanwhile, June was having her session with a therapist. Ever since the attack she had questioned if her thirst for knowledge had impacted on her missing the red flags that lead to the attack. Even before the attack she could see that Casey was a good doctor who kept on improving, her contributions were always more than token and yet she still had the desire to only care about how her relationship with Ethan affected the team, for which she clearly saw that it did not. She had always wanted to know what made people tick and would use whatever means necessary to do so but this obsession killed two people needlessly. It was difficult to come to terms with, even the team as a whole missed the flags, explaining it away as over concern but Travis’s actions was text book revenge and she missed it. Today June decided that she needed a new work challenge. Sure Edenbrook had the best diagnostics team that she had enjoyed working on but maybe a change is what she needed. She knew Ethan was not going anywhere anytime soon and if she was been honest with herself, she could see Casey running the team one day. She needed to plan and would submit her resignation further down the line. It was scary starting somewhere new but she felt she needed to.

Later that day Casey was still at the hospital. The more she was there, the easier being there was. She also wanted to keep informed of what was happening with Farley. She bumped into Ethan and continued with him towards the emergency department. They arrived just as an ambulance pulled up and opened the doors. Ethan took charge and they paramedic went through the particulars.

Female, mid 50’s, found on the street, collapsed and in and out of consciousness. The gurney was brought in and Ethan froze. The woman that the paramedic was describing was Louise Ramsey. Casey looked at the arms and noted the needle marks.

“Ethan, this woman has overdosed, she needs naloxone.”

Ethan jolted back to reality and got the drug and administered it. The nurses took over from there.

Casey wanted to talk to Ethan about it.

“I know you want to talk but I need to be alone for a little bit. I’m sorry” he says, with a pained expression before walking off to an on call room.

He is awash with all sorts of emotion and he kicks a bin.

He lets out a groan of frustration and ponders what to do next.

—-

Authors note: and I will end it there. The next chapter will deal with Louise, and some more Tobias and Ethan reconciliation action and chapter 15 will be the last of the angstish moments with 16 being the happy ending. Thank you all for ending this far

Tagging: @jerzwriter @genevievemd @messrprongs @cariantha @tessa-liam @zealouscanonindeer @alj4890 @potionsprefect @liaromancewriter @youlookappropriate @trappedinfanfiction @a-crepusculo @bex-la-get @crazy-loca-blog @schnitzelbutterfingers @lucy-268

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics @binny1985

#open heart #ethan ramsey #choices fanfic writers creations #casey valentine #choices #tobias carrick #fic of the week #au #open heart choices #ethan ramsey x mc #post attack

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